Sustainzim - Issue 04

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SUSTAINABLE LIVELIHOODS

LAND USE

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Communities Reduce Vulnerabilities Through Effective Planning

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How Local communities’ livelihoods are being transformed in Zimbabwe

EDUCATION ENVIRONMENT

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COP21 And COP 22 Youth Digital Climate Mapping

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Young Africa Zimbabwe offers Solar Technology Courses

F E AT U R E

Interview with Hon. Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri (MP) Minister of Environment, Water and Climate

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COP21

ENERGY

Communities Reduce

Vulnerabilities Through 02 Effective Planning

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How Local communities’ livelihoods are being transformed in Zimbabwe

ENERGY MINING

COP21 And COP 22 Youth 10 Digital Climate Mapping

Young Africa Zimbabwe

offers Solar Technology 12 Courses

F E AT U R E

Interview with Hon. Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri (MP) Minister of Environment, Water and Climate

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SustainZim is a publication that promotes a green culture within Zimbabwean homes, schools, work places and everyday lives. It aims to step up the fight against Global Warming and Climate Change by raising awareness about the need to reduce our carbon footprint and a push towards sustainable development.

It will showcase green initiatives already being done by government, civil society groups, companies and individuals.

PARTNERING We are available to work as implementing partners for projects in Zimbabwe. Get in touch if you would like to partner with us sustainzim@povoafrika.org

Communities Reduce Vulnerabilities Through Effective Planning

PUBLISHERS POVOAfrika Trust (MA0001023/2015)

By Joy Mlambo, UNV – UNDP/Environmental Management Agency Sidsel K. Vognsen, UNDP

ZIM - Harare +263 77 228 3186 / +263 773 456 797, 1 Verona Gardens, 70 Livingstone Ave RSA - Johannesburg +27 11 7603511 / +27 726005283 210 Klein Drakenstein, 31 Snipe Street, Horizon, 1724, Roodepoort CONTRIBUTE contribute@sustainzim.org ADVERTISING A rate sheet is available on request ZIM +263 77 291 8810 / +263 77 228 3186 RSA +27 72 600 5283 / +27 11 7603511 Email: advertise@sustainzim.org Limited Space Available!

KEY PERSONNEL EDITOR Archibald Mathibela PROJECT COORDINATOR Raymond Muwaniri DESIGN AND LAYOUT Baynham Goredema FINANCE DIRECTOR Rodrick Longwe CARTOONIST Tafadzwa Tarumbwa DISCLAIMER SustainZim is published by POVOAfrika Trust. The information, opinions and views set out in this journal are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of POVOAfrika Trust nor any of their partners.

Neither POVOAfrika Trust nor any person acting on their behalf may be held responsible for the use which may be made of the information contained therein. Neither are they responsible for siting references within articles, stated facts or credits to photos supplied, this is the responsibility of the contributor. Rights to the photographs and articles remain with the photographers and with the authors respectively.

Contact them respectively for reproduction. While all care has been taken during proofing, errors and omissions may slip through and we sincerely apologise for these.

Special thanks to UNDP ZIMBABWE for partnering with us for the production of this issue.

Empowered lives. Resilient nations.

Rural communities in Zimbabwe face many and complex challenges. In order to find the best solutions, it is key to engage stakeholders across sectors to pool together knowledge and coordinate initiatives.

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he Scaling Up Adaptation project, implemented by OXFAM, supports rural communities in Zimbabwe to reduce their vulnerability and strengthen their livelihoods. Chimanimani District is one of the many vulnerable districts around Zimbabwe that have been impacted by both environmental degradation and climate change.

In order to get to the root of the problem of water, the project partners decided to look at the whole river basin in a holistic manner and to engage stakeholders both up- and downstream.

Initially the Scaling Up Adaptation project focused on the most vulnerable villages in the semi-arid western part of Chimanimani. But it soon became clear that it was not enough to single out a few villages. Dr. Leonard Unganai, the project manager of Scaling Up Adaptation, tells the story of the first meetings with communities:

The Chieza village lies upstream on the Nyambeya river in a wet part of Chimanimani. It had established an irrigation scheme drawing water from the from the Nyambeya wetland to community gardens.

The village cattle were grazing in the wetland and overgrazing and drainage damaged the wetlands ability to store water. Also, the village was located in a mountainous area, where many trees had been felled for firewood and agricultural space, so the rain easily washed the soil into nearby waterways, causing siltation further downstream.

We started out by focusing on the most vulnerable villages in the Odzi river basin, of which Nyambeya river is a part. When we discussed the water shortages and solutions, the communities told us: We know where our water problems are coming from. The villages up stream are causing siltation in the river and that impacts us. We would like to engage with them on this issue.

The project partners found out that the Nyambeya river flows had decreased, due to that some communities upstream did not manage the land well. The forest was cut down for firewood and agricultural space, there was streambank cultivation and when the rains came, the soil was washed into the river that clogged with silt downstream. This impacted small holder farming communities down the river, who were no longer getting enough water for their irrigation schemes. On top of this, the farmers in these communities could not rely on the rains as the rain fall patterns were changing in their areas due to climate change. This resulted in crop failure and put the communities’ livelihoods under pressure.

There is need for better management of water resources – both upstream and downstream

It took some time to get the Chieza community to buy into the idea of managing the natural resources better to make sure that communities both up and downstream would have access to water. But at the time we approached the village, the villagers were also starting to experience that their water resources were dwindling. So even though the water scarcity was mostly felt downstream, the villagers in Chieza also became interested in managing their water better, Dr. Unganai recounts.

Over time, the Chieza village had seen an evident decline in the water volume, as the wetlands water storage capacity decreased.

The village had also noticed that their weir on the river had gradually become heavily silted, reducing its carrying capacity. The weir had not initially been built with any standard

guidelines and this led to its collapse after several flooding episodes. It became clear for the community members that they would need to do something different if they were to have a reliable source of water in the long run.

Sustainable land use planning is key to improve rural livelihoods To help solve the problems, OXFAM and its partners supported the Chieza community to better understand the situation of environmental degradation and make plans for sustainable natural resources management. As this was a complex issue that touched upon many social, economic and environmental issues, the project engaged stakeholders across sectors in the district.

We brought on board a variety of stakeholders.

The Environmental Management Agency assisted us in mapping out wetlands and the current status of wetlands. Actors in the agricultural sector helped us look at land use planning, soil degradation and erosion. The Forestry Commission assessed the status of biodiversity and the state of the forest. The Water authorities helped to identify where the weir could be constructed. Together we did an assessment of the situation and discussed what to do about the situation, Dr. Ungainai says. This helped us to see the problem from many angles and decide on a holistic solution.

One of the key initiatives was a participatory assessment of current land use, the sources of risk and the community aspirations.

This included participatory transect walks to look at the different aspects of land use. Farmers with local knowledge of the villages, local leaders, SAFIRE Program Coordinators working in the villages,

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Environmental Management Agency officers, consultants from the University of Zimbabwe and AGRITEX and livestock production officers walked through the landscape together and assessed how the land was used and how it supported the livelihoods of the villagers.

The transect walks were critical because the community members saw the deforested woodlands, the degraded croplands, gullies and flood channels and discussed them together with the experts, Dr. Unganai says.

Based on the participatory assessments, community members decided that in order to protect and enhance their water resources, they needed to manage the wetland better. Together with OXFAM, the village made a plan for how they could manage the land and water resources sustainably in a way that would improve their livelihoods while maintaining ecosystems healthy.

A win-win solution for all The Chieza village decided to fence the wetland off to encourage minimal disturbance and allow the wetland to regenerate and increase its water holding capacity. The villagers contributed with the manpower to put up the fence and OXFAM provided fencing material.

Now, 4 months after, when we do the transect walks through the landscape, we can see that the Nyambeya wetland is recovering. People notice medicinal plants that had disappeared and animal species they had not seen for a long time. The community has also found out that protecting the wetland opens up of livelihood opportunities, such as beekeeping and aquaculture. Dr. Unganai explains with enthusiasm.

The villagers also decided to re-construct the weir in a climate proofed way so that it can withstand flooding - thus avoiding further disasters. The depth of the weir has also been revised, taking into consideration that the rainy season has become erratic and there is a need to store water to have a reliable source of water. In addition, the village developed plans for sustainable land use, which encourage agricultural practices that prevent siltation of the weir and encourage the conservation of natural resources.

And the best part is, that both the Chieza village and the vulnerable villages downstream are benefiting. Their irrigation schemes are now functioning again, because there is enough water flowing in the river. It became a win-win situation for all involved, Dr. Unganai explains.

This successful experience shows that for the district of Chimanimani and for Zimbabwe as a whole, dialogue across sectors is key to tackle environmental degradation and climate change effectively. Stakeholders need to come together to plan and coordinate in order to have policies, programmes and activities that speak to each other.

I think everyone involved learnt something in this process, Dr. Unganai says. “We saw that even for complex problems, there are solutions if we work together across sectors. If you plan together and draw on each other’s knowledge, you are more likely to have a positive impact.

This successful experience shows that for the district of Chimanimani and for Zimbabwe as a whole, dialogue across sectors is key to tackle environmental degradation and climate change effectively. Stakeholders need to come together to plan and coordinate in order to have policies, programmes and activities that speak to each other.

Scaling up Adaptation in Zimbabwe Scaling Up Adaptation in Zimbabwe, with a focus on rural livelihoods is a UNDP project, funded by the Global Environment Facility and implemented by OXFAM and the partners Southern Alliance for Indigenous Resources (SAFIRE), Plan International and the University of Zimbabwe. The project aims to scale up climate change adaptation measures and reduce the vulnerability of rural communities, particularly women to impacts of climate change including extreme events. The project focuses on increasing knowledge and understanding of climate variability and climate change induced risks among vulnerable communities – and based on that understanding, it supports communities to adapt to climate changes and diversify and strengthen their livelihoods and sources of income. The project targets the districts of Chimanimani, Chiredzi and Buhera and runs from 2014-2018.

Scaling up Adaptation in Zimbabwe, through Strengthening Integrated Planning Systems is a UNDP and Government of Zimbabwe project, funded

by UNDP and carried out by the Environmental Management Agency. The purpose of the project is to promote mainstreaming of a range of gender sensitive approaches for adaptation to climate change within the various sector policies, strategies and plans (development frameworks) and to integrate climate change adaptation into national, provincial and local level planning and budgeting processes, which are key to scaling up adaptation. The project thus seeks to strengthen planning and budgeting processes at the national, provincial and district levels. One of the major outputs of the project is the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) for effective implementation of initiatives to adapt to climate change.

Initially, the project targeted the districts of Chimanimani, Chiredzi and Buhera but in May 2016, the project increased its scope to cover 12 other vulnerable districts in Zimbabwe (Beitbridge, Binga, Bubi, Matobo, Umguza, Mangwe, Gwanda, Umzigwane, Tsholotsho, Bulilima, Mwenezi and Zaka).

The two projects for scaling up adaptation in Zimbabwe work closely together, using experiences and good practices from the community level to inform district and national planning to reduce vulnerability, manage the natural resources and adapt to climate change.

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E D i toR i A L

Sustainable Development Goals in Zimbabwe

By Raymond Muwaniri, POVOAfrika Trust SustainZim is a POVOAfrika Trust quarterly newspaper and online magazine on Sustainable Development issues in Zimbabwe. Our major focus areas are Environmental Management, Global Warming and Climate Change, Mitigation and Adoption Strategies.

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n 2015, our planet recorded the hottest temperatures on record – a testimony to the global threat now posed by Global Warming and Climate change. At the heart of all this – Sub Saharan Africa, the most susceptible region with frequent floods, cyclones, and droughts, that damage infrastructure, destroy crops, disrupt livelihoods, and cause loss of life. Never has the need for mass information been as vital as it is now – hence SustainZim! The SustainZim project adheres to all 17 United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with particular focus on 7; SDG 7 - Affordable Clean Energy There needs to be a more of a shift in Zimbabwe towards renewable energy sources and less reliance on nonrenewables. Solar and Hydro energy are the 2 major sources available and should be utilised more.

SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities People living in cities and rural communities have a responsibility to reduce their carbon footprint and protect their environment.

It is also the government’s responsibility to ensure that this occurs.

SDG 12 – Reasonable Consumption and Production It is vital Zimbabwe does not over consume its resources for the sake of its environment and future generations to come.

SDG 13 - Climate Action As a predominantly agricultural nation, Zimbabwe’s fate revolves around climate change whose spectre has already been made apparent in the dryer regions of the country.

SDG 14 - Life Below water: Aquatic life in our streams, rivers and lakes is being affected by our over dependence on irrigation, fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals. Biodiversity loss continues unnoticed and the water hyacinth plant is spreading unchecked, blocking sunlight reaching the water bed and depriving any growth of life. This is affecting the entire food chain in our waters and needs immediate attention.

SDG 15 - Life on Land Deforestation, Agriculture and human expansion have affected the life on our land.

Loss of habitat has led to loss of biodiversity with some species of animals and plants becoming locally extinct. We need a shift to other income generating activities beside agriculture to reduce the pressure on the land. E.g. Technology Production

SDG 17 - Partnership for the goals This is the most important SDG because without partnerships and cooperation none of the SDGs would be achievable.

What we have done so far?

A 2016 project, the SustainZim publication has been very successful with 4 issues completed and 40,000 copies distributed to key stakeholders nationwide; Government Departments, Civil Society, Groups, Schools, Tertiary Institutions, Libraries, Businesses and Individuals. The same stakeholders are also active contributors to the newspaper which features a broad spectrum of projects in their field.

Call for Contributors Four more SustainZim issues are scheduled for 2017 (March, June, September and December). We are calling for organisations and individuals to send in content for the paper. The benefits of contributing content include; Showcase and educate the masses on programs the organisation is undertaking.

Instant recognition throughout Zimbabwe, the region and the entire world for successful programs, which will attract more funding for organisations. An opportunity for partnerships and collaboration with other organisations or individuals. A chance for successful programs to be emulated in other areas, creating more employment and other income generating activities which benefit both the people and the environment.

Why sponsor SustainZim? There is an opportunity for organisations to sponsor and advertise in our newspaper.

Information on Sustainable Development needs to be disseminated as far as the grass roots level. The sponsoring organisation is made the main feature and gets special mention in the paper, with exclusive space allocated. The moral aspect of sponsoring also applies as it is a collective effort needed to make this green paper a success and for us as to achieve our SDGs. Local and international recognition through the paper, the www.sustainzim.org website and social media platforms.

For more information on sponsoring an issue please email contribute@sustainzim. org for our rate card. POVOAfrika Trust is grateful for the generous support of HIVOS, UNICEF and UNDP Zimbabwe who sponsored the 2016 SustainZim Issues.

Without these organisations the paper would not have been a reality and they have done a great service to our Environment, Country and Planet.

Future of SustainZim PovoAfrika Trust intend to make SustainZim a national newspaper accessible to everyone in Zimbabwe and also distribute to the greater region with Kenya and South Africa already on the horizon. Our publication will be translated into all the Zimbabwean indigenous languages for a

wider reach. Further, SustainZim will be the leading regional source of all Climate Change and Sustainable Development information that empower communities and creates positive change through collaboration. We have a responsibility to protect our precious, sensitive and beautiful planet to ensure our ongoing existence.

How to contribute PRINT RUN

Submission Guidelines

10 000 COPIES

Articles to be between 350 - 750 words maximum.

Content must be original work, and must not have been published/accepted for publication elsewhere.

In the event that there is a request to republish the work elsewhere, POVOAfrika will link the creator directly and will not act as a middle man.

It is the responsibility of authors to ensure that all copyright issues have been addressed prior to submission.

Any consequences for copyright law of infringement will be duly borne by the defaulting author.

You the creator will retain all rights to your work.

All articles will also be published online on www.sustainzim.org After article has been published on the website the author may publish on their own platforms.

If you have any articles, events, news snippets, please send them to the contribute@sustainzim.org

RETRACTION

TOP

Most read

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articles on our website

1. Sustainable Energy for Rural Communities Martha Munyoro Katsi (Practical Action)

2. To Be A Great Company, You Need To Be A Good Company Sustain Zimbabwe Collins Nyamadzawo (Jnr Energy Consultant)

3. Harnessing Solar Power to Tackle Energy Poverty in Rural Zimbabwe and Malawi Martha Munyoro Katsi (Practical Action)

4. The Emerge Competition: ‘Living Tomorrow Ruvimbo Moyo (Emerge)

5. The clean energy project UNICEF Zimbabwe and Mukuvisi Woodlands Jeremiah Mushosho (UNICEF Zimbabwe)

6. Solar brings joy to Gwanda District Martha Munyoro Katsi (Practical Action)

7. Sustainable Development Goals – Zimbabwe SustainZim Staff

8. Climate change and Zimbabwe, impacts and action Anna Brazier

9. The 2016 Traditional and Organic Food and Seed Festival Caroline Jacquet (Bio Innovation Zim)

10. The clean energy project UNICEF Zimbabwe and Mukuvisi Woodlands Jeremiah Mushosho (UNICEF Zimbabwe) In Issue 03 under an article titled Renewable Energy Association of Zimbabwe (REAZ) the byline was credited to Isaiah Makusendwa instead of Isaiah Nyakusendwa. We sincerely apologise for any inconveniences caused.

Read More articles at www.sustainzim.org

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S usta i na b le L i v el i h oo ds

How Local communities’ livelihoods are being transformed in Zimbabwe

By Charles Ndondo, Carbon Green Africa Over the past few decades, deforestation due to population growth and unstable forest management has ravaged the once magnificent forests of Zimbabwe. This not only harms the wildlife, but also erodes the soil. When the local communities learnt about an initiative to reduce deforestation and bring around sustainable livelihoods, they decided to act.

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ince its launch in 2011, the forest con s er vation proj ec t , K ariba REDD+, has contributed to the uplifting of local livelihoods, while also protecting local wildlife and the environment. Located in the northern part of Zimbabwe, this carbon offsetting project is currently the world’s largest community REDD+ project, protecting an area of more than 700,000 hectares. The project’s focus on conservation farming has significantly reduced deforestation, which in return has generated carbon credits that are sold in order to support the development of sustainable livelihoods.

Dr. Mercy Manyuchi (Pr. Eng) Harare Institute Of Technology, Chemical And Process Systems Engineering, Faculty Member @MercyManyuchi

Production of bio-fertilizer from Jatropha cake blended (M. M. Manyuchi and M. Nyamunokora)

This study aimed at assessing the feasibility of producing a bio-fertilizer from jatropha cake blended with vermicompost and vermiwash.

Experiments were done to determine the optimum temperature and pH for digestion, as well as the optimum drying temperature for the bio-fertilizer. Further tests were carried out to determine the moisture content and the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content (NPK) of the bio-fertilizer.

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Today, more than a third of Zimbabwe’s forest cover has disappeared due to heavy deforestation, poverty and drought.

The Kariba REDD+ has tackled the deforestation challenge by teaching local farmers and communities to take care of the forests and to look after their soil, redefining the once unsustainable means of livelihood and creating more environmentally-friendly and sustainable sources of income for local families. A community led initiative, the Kariba REDD+ project was the sole vision of Zimbabweans, determined to work for the future of their country.

Together with Carbon Green Africa, the project was brought to fruition by the local Zimbabwean community, wildlife experts, as well as South Pole Group’s experienced project developers.

The strong community involvement, the help of experienced experts, and the support of companies who contribute by buying Kariba credits, are the main reasons for the success of the project.

At present, the Kariba REDD+ project is living proof of how carbon offsetting projects can become powerful tools in fighting climate change, while providing sustainable livelihoods opportunities and improving food security. The four districts within the Kariba REDD+ project area, ( Hurungwe, Mbire, Nyaminyami and Binga) for example, have focused on addressing the challenges of deforestation, as a result of tobacco curing. The project has recently distributed 36,100 planting pockets to 15 schools and 1 individual to engage in tree planting as an alternative to curing tobacco and other domestic needs such as cooking and construction.

In Hurungwe, one farmer has spearheaded the use of a “Solar Tobacco Curing System” for 2 seasons. Mr. Dzingai Kusekarombe from Makuvisa village in Hurungwe has successfully cured his tobacco using coal only. Hailing the change, he notes that, “The control of heat is better than in firewood barns. The coal will burn for more than three hours as the burning is controlled thermostatically. Compared to the use of firewood, the use of this technology is less strenuous and less costly. One can even go and attend to other duties while the thermostat controls the temperatures unlike the use of firewood which requires constant attention.”

Papers by

Renewable energy as one of the solutions to the climate crisis towards a sustainable world Renewable energy still remains unused are most of the countries as a source of energy despite it being the solution to combat climate change. Most of the energy comes from non-renewable sources like coal. It still remains the top choice toproduce energy. Unless we give renewable energy a serious thought, the problem of energy crisis cannot be solved.

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Techno-Economic Analysis for Papermaking from Bagasse as a Value Addition Strategy (M. M. Manyuchi Auxilliah. T. Chiwanga, and D. J. Nkomo)

The pulp and paper manufacturing industry Zimbabwe relies heavily on importing waste paper as its raw material from neighbouring countries such as South Africa. At the same time, the available local resource is wood, the continual cutting of which results in environmental problems. As a measure to add value and beneficiation of the sugarcane bagasse as well as to reduce deforestation, there is need to use alternative raw materials such as bagasse, which is readily available at sugar plantations for paper production.

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Another farmer, Mr. Costain Gunzaro from Bindura, who recently heard about the “New Tobacco Curing Technology” also purchased some units to cure his tobacco. The changes were immediate. As Mr. Gunzaro notes, “The first time it took me 9 days to cure my bottom leaves with 8 bags of coal weighing 50kgs a bag and one cord of wood. But as the curing progressed to the upper leaves from reap four until to the tips it took 6 bags of coal and half a cord of wood to cure…That is a very good system to use which reduces the cutting down of wood and also saves time for the farmer at the barn when curing’’. In future, Mr. Gunzaro hopes to completely eliminate any firewood use in curing his tobacco. Both farmers noted the destruction caused by traditional tobacco curing methods and hailed the new technology as beneficial to the environment.

It is expected that the deforestation caused by tobacco curing will be reduced as the tobacco

farmers will be able to use the wood from the fuel-wood plantations and the use of this new technology for curing.

About Organisation: : Carbon Green Africa is an organisation which deals with climate change mitigation issues and facilitates the Kariba REDD+ Project together with rural communities in four districts namely Mbire, Hurungwe, Nyaminyami and Binga and with their respective councils.

Read More Papers by Dr. Mercy Manyuchi are available online and you can get updates when she publishes new papers at https://hit-ac.academia. edu/MercyManyuchi

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Behavior change: The panacea to climate change

they want to be involved in the decisions impacting society and addressing climate change is no exception”. Hence the statement to rally fellow students “Climate change has happened because of human behavior, therefore it’s only natural it should be us, human beings, to address this issue. It may not be too late if we take decisive actions today”.

The club’s activities are carried out with the generous support of the Lupane State University, UKAid and Trócaire through their various initiatives that capacitate young people from diverse backgrounds with knowledge, skills and resources.

This has attracted enthusiasm towards matters of climate change as evidenced by the huge turnout for meetings convened under the club‘s banner. It is therefore significant to note the impact of such activities in communities as they positively alter the path of youth.

Trócaire is the overseas development agency of the Catholic Church in Ireland (which supports long-term positive change to people’s lives and responds to emergencies.

Trócaire is the overseas development agency of the Catholic Church in Ireland (which supports long-term positive change to

Students on Climate justice posing for a photo after the clean-up

RECENT EVENTS 3 DECEMBER 2016 LUPANE, ZIMBABWE

TREE PLANTING DAY AT LUPANE STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS IN LUPANE DISTRICT COP22 ON CLIMATE CHANGE

people’s lives and responds to emergencies.

Illustrator: Tafadzwa Tarumbwa Written by: Raymond Muwaniri

The round table discussion, held on 25 August 2016 cemented relations with colleagues from the different institutions which was reinforced by messages on social media. Club President Bakani Mathe had this to say about the initiative, “…young people have made it abundantly clear that

Students on Climate Justice during the City Clean Up

PHOTO: AMY WICKHAM

he Lupane State University Climate Justice Club was formed with the drive to change existing perceptions about climate change. The club is also raising awareness on diverse climatic conditions with a view to fostering sustainable environmental practices. Birthed against a background of hunger, floods and earthquakes across the globe, the club has undertaken various awareness initiatives set to inform, educate and foster change in behavior towards climate change. Initiatives to date include a cleanup campaign that was conducted in the Bulawayo central business district which drew young people from the membership and other likeminded volunteers. AFRIYOCC and the ZIM -MALAWI was the zenith of the club milestone achievements; two conferences that influenced the course of the current events which culminated in a roundtable discussion with other tertiary institutions.

PHOTOS: NOMATHEMBA ZONDO

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By Bakani Mathe, Trocaire - Climate Justice Advocacy Club

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R ene wa b le E ner gy

Making a case for renewable energy intervention in Zimbabwe I

n my boyhood, I used to marvel at the lush green forest’s natural vegetation.

They were so thick and abundantly vegetated with lovely growing grasslands.

Biodiversity thrived and Bio-fuel energy sources were plenty. With population growth, this natural balance of the biosphere became lopsided. Since then, massive depletion of the forest cover due to aggressive cutting down of trees for firewood has been the order of the day.

Population explosion in cities is also catalyst to the rise in energy demand. There has been passionate speculation with many arguing that previous governments in Zimbabwe were more resourceful in energy needs provision than the present.

What is lost to this school of thought is that the Zimbabwean population before 1980 hovered around 4 to 5 million whereas it now stands at 13 -15 million. That is times two and a third, today’s total population! In the early 1940s the population of the world was almost 3.5 billion. The more the world population expands resources decrease in total net output .Thomas Malthus, a British Analyst and leading Economist of the 18th century predicted that in the coming 300 years from his time, World population would balloon to 6 billion . Today we are 7 billion and counting. Faced with many problems, above all household issues like Energy. Climate change and variation resulting from severe global warming continue to play a role in energy demand.

Most households in Africa face energy challenges and this puts pressure on the family’s disposable incomes. Energy requirements for families are increasing at a time when the environmental degradation continues unabated. As such, energy efficiency remains key and alternative sources of energy need to be provided.

Around the world there are 10 common energy types. The most accessible of these forms being Hydro- Electricity which is generated from water. In Zimbabwe, 40% of its people have access to its power while 60% have no access to it .The onus however, remains with citizens to campaign for Renewable Energy to achieve a Green Revolution which places less demand on none renewable energy sources. Engineer Dhiwa, from the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, pointed out that his Ministry was already working on Renewable Energy projects to tackle energy shortages. ‘’The cost of renewable energy technology may be high but we need to buttress Renewable Energy projects. The Energy policy we are working on is a master plan for National development, so we need to work with stakeholders to reach the UN 2030 Target’’ he says.

Undoubtedly, there are many factors in play for the ideals to be achieved. The Green Revolution can only be achieved if countries fully commit to reducing Green House Gases like carbon-dioxide which affects the ozone layer. ‘’Apart from policy make up currently a focus on, we are urging Industries to promote the manufacture of Renewable Energy Technology’ .The BUY Zimbabwe campaign is by no doubt vital , especially

By Nevson Mpofu

at a time we are promoting foreign currency flow into our country. As long as we stand vibrant and upright in promoting local product manufacturing ... we can win on the Sustainable Development Goals without any doubt‘’.’ Engineer Dhiwa concluded.

A practitioner, from the Zimbabwe Renewable Energy Council - Simba Sibanda also concurs and notes that there is need for governments to deliver 70% Renewable Energy to their people so as to achieve UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. He adds,‘’for this to be a success story, Investments in energy must be supported at a national level. Policy draft stands vital for us to win on goals of sustainable energy .As we focus on investing billions of dollars, let us focus on investing sharp knowledge in renewable energy strategy for a green revolution in order to have a win- win situation in Africa’’.

A glowing example is South Africa which has invested US$10 billion in renewable energy for a 100 percent Green Revolution for markets that sold technological products for the country’s economic growth. In Zimbabwe, Government has the Rural Energy Master plan Service Provision which strives to expand rural electrification through the Rural Electrification Agency under the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority. The country has also distributed Solar mini Grids in schools .Some households have solar water heating and solar geysers of 250 to 300 Megawatts.

Power For All Campaign Manager, Chiedza Mazaiwana supports efforts at engaging Government and Private Sector , forging stakeholder partnerships and engaging the media to shove and push the campaign .

‘’Africa is set to increase access to power for all. It is also good enough that this is clean energy that we are striving to achieve. In Zimbabwe if we have 40% with access to power and 60% without , it tells us a struggle story in the campaign for power for all by 2030 ’’said Mazaiwana.

Energy Experts predict that 500 million people will have received solar power empowerment by 2030 when we still will not have won the Solar and Green Energy Revolution. However, this demands a unified effort in reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. Finally, the massive use of coal is a threat to the environment since there is massive emission of carbon into the atmosphere.

Pomona Dumpsite blaze contributes to massive carbon emissions

By Lisa Chiedza Govera

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not disposed of properly with the issue of protecting the ozone layer as well as combating climate change in mind.

eing a digital youth climate mapper has changed the way I view my role as a young person and my ability to voice out concerns to do with our environment, as well as engaging other youths to rally behind activities that advocate against climate change. The timely opportunity of becoming a mapper came at the very moment my community was facing air pollution problems, and being able to report and share my personal experience made me feel that I was making a change.

Moreover I got to learn so much about climate change and the reality of the situation on the ground through digital climate mapping training. This has also sparked an interest in me to find documentaries and publications on climate change from the rest of the world.

Residents surrounding Harare’s major landfill site in the early hours of Sunday the 6th of November witnessed thick enormous clouds of smoke ascending in the sky. Harare News, an online news source confirmed the fire to have been possibly caused by combustion from the heat that is released when garbage is decomposing or arson which was the case in 2013. The argument follows that the extreme high temperature conditions the country has faced in the past weeks created the right conditions for the ignition to occur.

The incident saw residents very close to the area evacuate from their homes in fear of choking and inhaling dangerous toxins. The smoke was so intense such that visibility on Harare Drive and Alps Road was minimal. One report claimed the blaze went unabated for three days as was the case three years ago despite efforts by local authorities and the Fire Brigade’s efforts to put it out. Usually landfill fires burn towards the heart of

their dumps going down, therefore control of the fire can be close to impossible to contain.

The case of Pomona Landfill is that the dump pile had a depth of 300 metres before the burn.

One can only imagine the potential effects of the gases such as methane, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide that have been released into the air. The short term impacts of this landfill fire can be that of aggravating pulmonary issues, respiratory distress, skin rashes and other ailments. Considering that this fire outbreak isn’t a first in Harare, the dumpsite has become a large contributor of toxins that are harmful to crops and animals in neighbouring farms near the dumpsite. It is undeniable that Pomona Landfill is always a ticking bomb if garbage is

The Pomona Waste Dump has been facing a mismanagement crisis for many years and this caused the environmental disaster to occur. This is one of many fires that have happened in the past, and it is one of the more severe outbreaks.

The garbage being disposed of at the site was not being compacted and buried in the ground to avoid fire outbreaks.

Moreover, the garbage that was lit up in the fire consisted of aerosols, paints, bond paper bleached with chlorine, plastic pipes and wire covering among other flammable compounds. When released in the air,the toxic elements have both short term and long term effects which are harmful to plants, animals and human beings. Apart from chemicals leaching into ground water and surface water, the smoke also affects plant yields and animals that absorb these toxins making them harmful for consumption. Lastly residents from surrounding areas suffer from various ailments as a result of the smoke including nausea, eye irritation, headaches, respiratory conditions such as allergies and asthma and possibly in the long run, cancer.

My name is Lisa Chiedza Govera from Harare, Zimbabwe. I am a 25year old young lady who is passionate about environmental issues and finding solutions to combating environmental challenges. I hold a BA in advertising and public relations, and I commence a Masters in Corporate Social Responsibility in September 2017. My interest in environmental issues dates back to my high school years where I headed the Environmental Club at Queen Elizabeth High School from 2008-2009. I enjoy researching and writing on environmental issues that affect women and children, as they are close to my heart.

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F E At U R E

Interview with

Hon. Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri (MP) Minister of Environment, Water and Climate

By Raymond Muwaniri, POVOAfrika Trust

Zambezi River

environmental challenges that the country is facing, chief among them being climate change.

Are traditional leaders in rural areas (village heads, chiefs, councilors, VIDCO) doing enough to protect the environment? If so, what are they doing right? If not, what can be done to encourage them to do more for the environment?

The MEWC works well with traditional leaders who are the custodians of the natural resources in the areas under their jurisdiction in terms of the Traditional Leaders Act. They uphold norms and values that are consistent with natural resources management and there are graduated sanctions that are imposed to environmental offenders. Cultural beliefs and values have for many years been used to protect forests, water resources and have prevented veld fires. Furthermore, the traditional leaders use their traditional courts to try offenders.

The need to enhance participatory approach in planning is very important to enhance community ownership.

What channels are there in place for environmental issues reported at district level to reach the Honourable Ministers desk? How does your office prioritise the different environmental issues?

The MEWC is represented by its parastatals at lower levels which have clear cut mandates specified in the various Acts. Issues that require ministerial intervention are thus taken up by these parastatals and as a Ministry we value stakeholder participation and have a listening ear to all stakeholders and we are ready to respond. Every environmental issue is addressed separately but issues that involve loss of life or threat to life are given urgent attention.

Through promotion of alternative livelihoods through adaptation across agriculture and forestry sectors we fulfil SDG goal 17 of enhancing livelihoods.

Minister of Environment, France and Minister of Environment Zimbabwe having a bilateral discussion during the Pre COP21 Informal Sessions held by the Government of France.

How are the new Sustainable Development Goals related to environment, water and climate being implemented into national policy? How does the Ministry intend to monitor that these goals are met?

Goal 13“Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts” of the Sustainable Development Goals is in line with the Ministry’s mandate to combat climate change.

The SDGs build on input from all sectors of society and all parts of the world. The SDGs aspire to end poverty and to create economic, social and environmental global sustainability.

Hence through conforming to the SDGs together with the Sendai Framework and the recently endorsed Paris Agreement, Zimbabwe will go a long way in solving

What is your opinion on the work civil society is doing in relation to environment, water and climate? Are they making a difference to Zimbabwe’s environment? How can civil society and the Ministry work better together going forward?

Yes, civil society are doing a great job in complimenting Government efforts in terms of implementing of environmental, water and climate related programmes especially at grassroots level. Their involvement in awareness raising, knowledge sharing and lobbying cannot be overemphasized. We need to coordinate convergence of efforts to avoid duplication and overlaps of civil society work and the Government. As the Ministry, we are keen to share our priority areas of interventions in addressing environment, water and climate challenges so that we ensure sustainable environmental management and build climate resilient communities.

What is your position on Carbon Credits? What other low carbon solutions has the Ministry planned?

The Ministry is willing to participate in the Clean Development Mechanism which enables us to access the Carbon market.

Thus we have made efforts to ratify the Doha

Amendment for the extension of the Kyoto Protocol lifespan, to enable full participation and access of the Carbon markets and other clean energy options. We are in the process of reviewing concepts and facilitation of registration of CDM projects in Zimbabwe.

The challenge for Zimbabwe to have accredited CDM projects in the past has been attributed to the absence of technical experts in developing and evaluating of projects. Other low carbon solutions that have been planned will be derived from the Zimbabwe’s Nationally Determined Contributions. These include investment in renewable energy, energy efficiency, climate smart agriculture and clean technologies for curing tobacco. The Ministry is also in the process of ratifying the Paris Agreement to ensure that the country benefits from the Market and Non-Market Mechanisms being discussed under the agreement.

What are the Ministry’s current and future actions on the implementation of Public Awareness Strategies and Activities recommended in the Climate Response Strategy launched last year? How are these activities reaching small scale and commercial farmers?

The Ministry through the Climate Change Management Department participates in national exhibitions such as the Harare Agricultural Show and Zimbabwe International Trade Fair. Climate change dialogues targeting the farmers have been held together with Sectoral and stakeholder targeted workshops. Last year my Ministry held a National Climate

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F E At U R E Change Conference which brought together stakeholders from all sectors including farmers and the general public. On 29 January, 2016 a targeted meeting was held with commercial farmers. The Ministry will continue to hold stakeholder awareness programmes and we are packaging climate information for dissemination for targeted groups. Electronic and print media has also been used to reach out. The Ministry has a draft communication and education climate change strategy which will enable us to communicate response strategies.

Unpacking of the strategy programme is also underway.

What measures are being taken by the Ministry to ensure biodiversity is maintained for Zimbabwe’s flora and fauna?

Publicity, through our parastatals the Ministry is doing education and awareness campaigns aimed at ensuring that the country’s fauna and flora are protected. The

resources in any given area through chiefs and the Rural District Council (RDCs).

In terms of developing mutually agreed terms to access and benefit sharing, the one requesting and the one offering services, should agree on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). They may need to engage a private Lawyer as the role of the Ministry is to oversee and protect the interest of the locals without direct influence on the MOU. Being ABS compliant depends on what products one wants to come up with, in regards to their market and less to do with the overseeing Ministry. The Ministry only ensures that local communities benefit from the natural resources. In addition, for one to access plants or animals apart from the statutory instrument, we have laws under the Ministry of Agriculture and one needs permit from the National Parks.

We use agricultural practices that are destroying the environment, especially the soil and the life in it. How is

Being part of the agreement will ensure that Zimbabwe is eligible to access resources provided for under the different frameworks and mechanisms for climate change adaptation and mitigation, particularly with reference to the NDCs.

What is the Ministry currently doing to educate the young children, who are the future of Zimbabwe, on environmental protection and climate change?

The Ministry has held climate change debates across the nation to enhance climate change appreciation among the children as well as educate them.

It will also ensure that on the ground Zimbabweans’ socio-economic aspirations are incorporated into global decisions by allowing Zimbabwe to participate in the pre-2020 preparatory activities which will define the operational modalities of the Paris agreement. Already a number of mitigation and adaptation projects that include ’Scaling up Climate Change Adaptation in Zimbabwe’ have been developed for submission to the various multilateral funding windows. One of the requirements to unlock the funds is the country being a party to the agreement that has created the fund. Zimbabwe will be better positioned to benefit once it becomes a signatory to the agreement.

Children are being invited to participate and present at national workshops and conferences on climate change so that they keep abreast with the most current information on climate change. For example the climate policy consultation workshops, the Post Cop21 workshops and the National Climate Change Conference, Children’s participation in such initiatives is in a way educating them about climate change.

The ministry also works in collaboration with other ministries and organizations like UNICEF which help disseminate the climate change dialogue to the children.

Publishing climate information in child friendly packages, e.g. the book on Children’s thoughts on Climate Change which the Ministry together with the French Embassy published and the ‘Children and Climate Change in Zimbabwe’ done by UNICEF.

PHOTOS: BAYNHAM GOREDEMA

The Ministry through EMA runs a “Catch Them Young Programme” focusing on schools. We support competitions through the school clubs, schools debates and school environmental projects.

What is the Ministry’s position on recycling our waste?

Are there any immediate plans to introduce recycling at household level and construction of recycling plants?

Recycling of waste is the way to go as we follow the waste management hierarchy.

It assists us in ensuring that communities are clean and at the same time deriving cash

Victoria Falls during the green season

Ministry does anti-poaching activities to avoid wildlife demise. We safeguard wildlife using protected areas networks which include national parks, forestry gazette areas, sanctuaries, conservancies and botanical gardens. We also involve communities in natural resources management in initiatives such as CAMPFIRE. The Ministry also does fire management and is in the process of implementing a National Fire Management Plan for the 2016 fire season. It also prosecutes environmental offenders.

“Access and Benefit Sharing”: For organisations wanting to be ABS-compliant, when are we getting a National Authority who can authorise access to natural resources, help develop mutually agreed terms etc.? Who is in charge of such issues at the moment?

At the moment the country has no competent national authority. We are guided by Statutory 61 of 2009 on Access and Benefit to genetic resources, which is under EMA and overseen by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate. It gives guidelines on how people can access genetic

the Ministry linking environment and production of food?

Is there any strategy to that effect? How can civil society support the Ministry to ensure that there is a transition to Agroecology to resuscitate our fast-dying environment?

Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate through EMA falls under the Food Security and Nutrition Cluster in terms of the ZimASSET because a healthy environment promotes agricultural production. This reduction of land degradation through erosion, veld fires and the spread of invasive alien species is necessary to keep the land productive in order to support the agriculture sector which is the backbone of our economy underpinning economic growth, food security and poverty eradication. Consolidated projects are encouraged to avoid stream bank cultivation and EMA has supported such 60 consolidated projects. We are also lobbying for climate smart agriculture practices which are environmentally friendly and clean.

How will Zimbabweans on the ground benefit from the recent COP21 held in Paris last year? Does the Honourable Minister think that Zimbabwe has the adaptive capacity for the solutions suggested at the conference?

Lake Mtirikwi experiencing low levels

The current adaptive capacity for Zimbabwe is low, however the provision and mobilisation of climate finance to enhance adaptation in developing country parties shall represent a progression beyond previous efforts from a flow of 100 billion per year which is to be mobilised by developed countries. There is need for Africa to ensure that there is a strong team following climate finance to ensure that the developed countries have a firmed up road map on how they want to reach the US$100billion target.

COP22 held in Morocco offers a platform for more global action. Zimbabwe is keen to participate in the two initiatives that were launched as flagship programmes for Africa.

Zimbabwe is strategically positioning itself to participate in the Africa Renewable Energy Initiative and Africa Adaptation Initiative.

from waste. There are recycling companies in the country and at the moment are too centralized in Harare. As a Ministry through EMA, we are working on a comprehensive waste management master plan which will also see how such initiatives could be made viable for the good of the environment.

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E N v i R oN M E N t

COP21 And COP 22 Youth Digital Climate Mapping

By Jeremiah Mushosho, UNICEF ZIMBABWE

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Tackling climate change is a key priority area in UNICEF’s Agenda for Every Child and at the same time, climate change and sustainability are big on the SDG agenda.

n 2015 and 2016 world leaders met in Paris and Morocco for the COP21 & COP22 – during which decisions were made which have crucial consequences for the future of the planet. The Conference of the Parties (COP) was designated as the supreme governing body of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) entered into force in 1994, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere.

In preparation for these global summits on climate change, UNICEF developed a digital map to document the daily realities lived by young people worldwide, according to the impacts of the climatic disorder on their community. The map has over 50 report submissions from Zimbabwe.

What is Youth Climate Digital Mapping?

UNICEF issued an appeal to young people to contribute to the realisation of an international climatic mapping cartography.

Basing on photos and videos, approximately 150 young people from all over the world, represented its environmental problems (waste, stagnant waters) or best practice (sustainable cities, mobilisation of citizens to clean waste) to address climate change in their communities. The climate digital map, comprised of the reports from the young people, were displayed at COP21 and COP22 and other major climate events to put the voices of youth at the forefront of the climate conversation. These reports are also compiled onto the Climate Digital Map which is used to support local and global climate advocacy projects. Some youth have also been blogging about their experience.

During COP 22, Darlington Tshuma a Zimbabwean Youth Digital Climate Mapper took over the UNICEF Global Twitter account to speak out on air pollution and climate change and share his personal experiences about its impact on his community.

and which ones require greater collaboration and investment from government or business. UNICEF Zimbabwe through this engagement with youth has created over 30 reports in 2015 and approximately 25 reports in 2016 on this map so far which detail what children understand and see as the most significant impacts of climate change and environmental degradation to their communities as well as positive solutions which are being made to address air pollution and related environmental problems in Zimbabwe.

The 2016 youth climate digital mapping focused on air pollution as it is a contributor to climate change, negatively affects children’s health and also it’s a global and growing issue of concern which world leaders need to address. Air Pollution is “Generally any substance that people introduce into the atmosphere that has damaging effects on living things and the environment

Advocating

The initiative had the following four stages:

Training

Reporting

and recycling initiatives are crucial for addressing such air pollution issues.

Darlington Tshuma one of our mappers reported on this.

Marrakech, 11th November 2016 - One of the strongest moments at the COP22 in Morocco was the ceremony of “Climate Youth Awards” dedicated exclusively to the youth voice. Through their own artistic production, young people raised awareness about the impact of climate change on children. The ceremony was organized jointly by UNICEF CO and the CNDH (“National Council for Human Rights”), the constitutional independent body for human rights monitoring. The President of the CNDH, Driss El Yazami, is also member of the steering committee for the organization of COP22 in Morocco (Aicha Yamani – UNICEF Morocco, 2016)

MORE INFO The map: http://climatesummit.unicef-gis.org/ Darlingtons TwitterTakeover Storify: https://storify. com/UNiCEF/darlington-s-story-cop-22-twittertakeover Child and youth-produced media for local advocacy with government, business and community: http:// cop21.unicef.fr/

Group photo of the 2016 Youth Digital Climate Mappers

Blogging

Voices of Youth is not only an online platform for young people to engage in and learn more about issues affecting their world, it also enables youth to use the map and complementary child and youthproduced media for local advocacy with government, business and community. One of the aims of the mapping initiative is to connect the child/youth voices and views with local leaders and decisions makers people who have the power to act on some of the things that are reported on the map.

During this activity children and youth have been presenting their findings and sharing their experiences of what climate change and environmental degradation means in their lives. It has also been very useful to discuss what issues can be dealt with locally

is considered air pollution” –National Geographic.

Back row from left: Jacqueline Magwenzi, Dorcas Chashaka, Tinotendaishe Madzikanga, Tatiana Kondo, Rumbidzai Mafrika, Vimbiso Nhokwara, Brighton Mashizha, Jeremiah Mushosho. Front row from left: Catherine Kasonya, Blessing Garandi, Quinton Chatambuba, Paul Chavi, Prince Matambo

In 2016 one of the topical issues in Harare has been the burning at the Pomona dump site which one of our digital mappers Lisa Govera reported on.

There are also examples of positive actions being done in the community to address air pollution. In Graniteside – Harare there is a community initiative to separate and recycle waste by Tisunungurei Cooperative.

Burning of waste causes various polluting emissions to be released into the atmosphere including methane, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. Proper waste management

Back row from left: Jeremiah Mushosho, Conilias Madondo, Sibusiso Mpofu, Moses Machipisa, Darlington Tshuma, Ruben Jaravaza, Tsitsi Alice Musonza, Tapuwanashe Dube, Emmanuel Muzingwani, Wisdom Manaka. Front row from left: Ronia Mhike, Nyasha Beremauro, Lisa Govera.

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wA St E M A N Ag E M E N t

Putting Value in Waste

By Oswald Simbarashe Chishanga, Save Our Environment Trust Putting Value in Waste Project

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his is a Project under the Save Our Environment Trust’s (SOET) Waste Management and Renewable Energy Programme banner. From its inception May 2016 in Gweru, the project has become the cornerstone of our operations, expanding to Kwekwe with a launch in Gokwe already planned. The project provides companies and communities with environmentally sound management of all forms of waste and significantly reduces its release to the land, air and water, in the process minimizing waste’s adverse impact on human health and the environment. The second goal is to substantially reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, reuse and recovering. By attaching value to waste, we hope to create a clean and safe environment and to empower the citizens and businesses operating in Gweru and Kwekwe through collection and selling of recyclable waste.

The collected waste material is transported to the baling site where it is weighed and packed into 300kg bales. On average, we collect about 30 tonnes of cardboard box, 2 tonnes of plastics and 3 tonnes of pet bottles per month. This translates to about 210 tonnes of cardboard box, 14 tonnes of plastics and 21 tonnes of pet bottles we have managed to recover and recycle from inception. The baled cardboard

Baled Pet Bottles

boxes and plastics are sold to the National Waste Collection company with half of the proceeds funding other non-income generating programmes - training retail outlet employees, Schools and Communities in Waste Management. The organisation has also managed to provide bins to these target sectors so as to reduce the amount of waste being dumped at illegal sites. Communities in Gweru and Kwekwe, have enjoyed improved livelihoods through the collection and selling of recyclable waste material. Other perceptible outcomes that the project has managed to bring out include: Adoption of sustainable management of waste and efficient use of natural resources by companies and communities.

Significant reduction in waste material disposed at undesignated sites.

Increased participation in waste management initiatives by companies and communities.

Empowered environment entrepreneurs equipped with skills and knowledge in waste management.

A collection of videos from Dr Pamela Ngwenya shocasing a variety projects dealing with sustainable development around Zimbabwe

View all videos at her Vimeo page https://vimeo.com/user2299194

Mpumelelo Organic Community Garden

PHOTO SOURCE: SOET

SOET has partnered with all retail outlets in Gweru and Kwekwe whereby it is collecting cardboard boxes, pet bottles, clear and coloured plastics. The organisation is also collecting the same waste materials from schools and individuals in communities in and around Gweru and Kwekwe. As an empowerment measure, schools and communities are paid for their waste to ensure a significant reduction in waste dumped at undesignated places and improperly disposed. Illegally dumped and burnt waste has been a major health hazard for communities. Thus it is important for people and communities to play a leading role in reducing the amount of waste material being dumped and burnt. By putting value in waste, we hope to inculcate a culture of recycling which will in turn keep our cities clean.

This garden project has 42 members and operates on 4 hectares of land in Dewe Village, Matopos. This is in the dry Matebeleland South Province of Zimbabwe. The project is facilitated by the Fambidzanai Permculture Training Centre in Harare, who provided training in permaculture and business skills, and currently offer on-site support in the form of Mr Crispen Dungeni, who is a FPTC staff member based in the area.

The project focusses on household and community consumption and therefore grows a traditional array of vegetables including chomeolia (kale), spinach, onions and tomatoes. They also practice agro-forestry and so we find pawpaws and banana trees here too.

The garden is organic, but the farmers I met on site here were not especially clued up or passionate about this aspect. The emphasis here was on improving community nutrition and supporting those in need, such as the elderly, AIDS orphans and the sick.

Importantly, this is also a livelihood project, generating income for the mainly female members who cultivate the garden. This makes a huge difference in a place such as Dewe Village, where there is little cash-based employment and families need to find money to pay for school fees and basic goods.

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E D U C At i oN

Young Africa Zimbabwe offers Solar Technology Courses YA Namibia Students doing practical exam

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he mission of YA is to empower young people through vocational and technical skills training combined with life skills and entrepreneurship training.

Accordingly, we integrate vocational skills training in market-related technical, commercial and agricultural trades, small enterprise development services and life skills education.

As of January 2017 Young Africa will be offering Solar Technology courses. The course will focus on Design, Installation and Maintenance of Solar systems.

The introduction of this course has been necessitated by the growing number of people who are installing solar panels but without proper training and knowledge of the fundamentals of Photo-voltaics hence facilitating system failures, wasting huge amounts of resources and impacting negatively on people’s confidence in Renewable Energy.

Solar installation is a science. A successful solar installation comprises of an understanding of the working principle of the Solar system and a thorough appreciation of electrical load power profile (electrical gadgets to be powered) which

By Maloon Dahwa, Young Africa Zimbabwe

The course will empower young people so that they can have life skills and contribute to the Sustainable Energy 4 all goals.

Students will benefit from the theoretical and practical experience gained from actual designing and installations of the solar panels.

Enrolment starts in January 2017 though preparations, purchasing and setting up of lab equipment is already in progress.

are critical for the installation of efficient and affordable solar system.

A lot of solar systems are failing due to limited to zero knowledge of the fundamentals of solar systems.

A technical training will give the installer an understanding of the different types of solar systems/components at his/her disposal, a comprehensive understanding of what is required of the solar system hence optimizing on the design, cost and increasing system efficiency.

a position with a dealer /installer or other PV/thermal industry company.

Program Rationale:

On completion of the program, trainees will have the following the knowledge and (but not limited to) ability to fulfil the following competences:

The high number of sunlight hours and sunshine intensity in Zimbabwe is ideal for solar energy. The demand keeps growing with a growing shortage of non sustainable energy sources which cause global warming & climate change, spiralling fuel and electricity prices. YA Zimbabwe anticipates on this trend by offering hands-on training to (underprivileged) young people in the installation and maintenance of solar panels, educating them on the benefits of clean Renewable Energy against other forms of generating electricity and their effects on global warming and climate change.

Program Purpose: To equip installers with knowledge of photovoltaic and thermal systems, suitable for

Graduates can also start their own business in solar technology after this training.

Program Objectives:

Ba sics of Elec trical Eng ineering, Fundamentals of solar photovoltaic technology, Components of a solar photovoltaic system, Solar home system (SHS) design and installation, Repair and maintenance of components of solar photovoltaic systems, Design aspects of large solar photovoltaic systems, Design aspects of water pumping systems, Socio – techno Economic Feasibility Study, Practical training, Entrepreneurial Skills, Quality assurance, Performance Inspection and Commissioning The YA Solar department will also be running a solar systems installation business to which the students will immensely benefit the practical hands-on experience.

After the training the graduating students can join various Solar installation/ distributing companies or even start their own companies.

Arrangements can also be made if there are groups of students who are intowns outside Harare to be trained.

KB KBMpofu Mpofu FREELANCE FREELANCEPHOTOGRAPHER PHOTOGRAPHER

+263 +26399883 883696 696 +263 +2637171660 6605615 5615 Kb@kbmpofu.com Kb@kbmpofu.com www.kbmpofu.com www.kbmpofu.com

We hope the programme will go a long way in contributing to general appreciation and uptake of the Renewable Energy as well as empower the leaders of tomorrow.

Young Africa Zimbabwe is a skills training organisation which seeks to empower young people through vocational and technical skills training combined with life skills and entrepreneurship training. Our integral approach seeks to address the personal, social and economic needs of young people in a highly synchronised way giving opportunities for on-the-job exposure to trainees.

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P OL I C Y

Towards Zimbabwe’s National Adaptation Plan

By Joy Mlambo, UNV – UNDP/Environmental Management Agency In the Chiredzi district of Masvingo province, hell hath no fury like climate extremes. The district has seen its fair share of climatic shocks ranging from relentless high temperature extremes to increased frequency in hailstorms and flash floods while drought has become a norm.

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ike Chiredzi, many other districts in Zimbabwe are increasingly becoming vulnerable to similar and more severe climatic shocks. In the absence of longterm adaptation measures, climate change continues to create a state of vulnerability to climate impacts in these communities with women being the worst affected.

Experts say that this situation is not unique.

The effects of climate change are predicted to exacerbate the already existing challenges faced by developing nations, with countries in Sub-Saharan Africa—including Zimbabwe—being hardest hit.

Against this background, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate (MEWC) has embarked on the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) development process which seeks to develop medium to long term approaches for reducing vulnerability to climate change impacts and facilitating the integration of climate adaptation into ongoing planning processes at national and sub- national levels.

The NAP development process is championed under the Scaling up Adaptation in Zimbabwe through Strengthening Integrated Planning Systems Project, an initiative led by the Government of Zimbabwe supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and implemented by the Environmental Management Agency (EMA). ”The centre-piece of the plan is to ensure that climate change remains the central focal point around which livelihoods are anchored in Zimbabwe” says Ms Emily Matingo who is a Climate Change Scientist based at the Adaptation Office in the Department of Climate Change Management of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate. “ This can be achieved through creation of local area adaptation plans (LAAPs), district adaption plans (DAPs), provincial adaption plans (PAPs) and ultimately, a National Adaptation Plan” she adds.

In this regard, Zimbabwe has already made some significant strides. A National Climate Change Response Strategy has already been developed. This is the first stage in the development of NAPs. The strategy provides a baseline for the development of the NAPs. In addition, the National Climate Change Response Strategy also provides a firm foundation upon which the NAP will be built on— mainly as a way to integrate climate risk into national development planning, policies, and programs.

“In Zimbabwe, we are seeking to develop our National Adaptation Plan that is country-driven, country-owned and gendersensitive. This participatory approach will avoid duplication of efforts. It will also take into consideration vulnerable groups, communities and ecosystems” explains Ms Matingo noting that the process will be guided by the best available science and, as appropriate, traditional and indigenous knowledge.

As a flexible process that builds on the country’s existing adaptation activities and helps integrate climate change into national decision-making, the NAP is thus strategic for the country in shaping its Climate Policy, implementing the National Climate Change Response Strategy and exploring ways of upscaling development as it supports domestic decision-making Currently, consultations are underway across the country. The consultations allow concerns

It is of great importance that local area adaptation plans take into consideration aspects such as climate proofing of infrastructure; use of sustainable landuse systems that enhance agricultural production, ensure food security and nutrition and maintain ecosystem integrity; the importance of including women in the coming up of local adaptation strategies since climate change impacts have never been gender neutral and the instigation of stiff penalties against veld fires, unlawful mining and cutting down of trees

and issues from all 10 provinces in Zimbabwe to be captured and these will be fed into the final NAP document.

Meanwhile, to ensure value addition on coherent integration of climate change into policy, strategic and sectorial planning and programming, a stocktaking process has also commenced. This is aimed at undertaking a comprehensive inventory of the NAP process through assessing gaps and needs and through identifying national and sectorial information available on climate change impacts, vulnerability and adaptation.

Furthermore, the development of district— and provincial—adaptation plans is necessary. This will provide a database on each and every area, highlighting the weather conditions that prevail in that area, past and current climatic shocks and their impact, the risks and vulnerabilities of the area, future climate change scenarios and an inventory of assets and investments present in the respective areas so as to efficiently plan for their use in a bid to make the communities resilient to the vagaries of climate change.

The formulation of district adaptation plans will initially target 15 districts districts, namely; Chiredzi, Buhera, Chimanimani, Beitbridge, Binga, Bubi, Matobo, Umguza, Mangwe, Gwanda, Umzigwane, Tsholotsho, Bulilima, Mwenezi and Zaka.

Subsequently, Climate Risk Management technical working groups have been established in 12 of the 15 targeted districts.

These groups will lead the process of formulating the district adaptation plans (DAPs) and ultimately championing the mainstreaming of climate change adaptation in development planning and budgeting processes in their respective districts.

Hands-on training for capacity

The development of NAP marks a milestone in Zimbabwe’s contribution to global efforts to combat the impact of climate change. Following the Nationally Determined Contributions which were submitted to the UNFCCC in 2015 indicating how Zimbabwe would reduce its major Greenhouse Gases (from energy sector) and enhance adaptation efforts in the agriculture sector, Zimbabwe will use NAPs to make formal adaptation contributions to global collective action on climate change, or express such contributions with reference to their NAPs process.

Successful completion of the NAP process will also go a long way towards assisting Zimbabwe to unlock various climate financing mechanisms under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), including bilateral and multilateral channels as well as those from Adaptation and Green Climate Funds.

Technical support

Brokering of knowledge

Support and capacity-building, M&E

Initiating and launching of the NAP process

Identifying info, assessing gaps and needs, addressing capacity gaps, assessing development needs and climate vulnerabilities

Lay the Groundwork and Address Gaps

Assessing climate vulnerabilities

Analysing climate risks

Reviewing adaptation options

(Iterative Steps)

Implementation Strategies

Preparatory Compiling and communicating adaptation plans (sectoral, national, etc) Integrating climate change adaptation into planning (Iterative Steps)

Climate services & other systematic data and modelling services Figure 1: How the NAP Process in Zimbabwe is progressing

Reporting And Outputs: Progress reports, Technical Reports, Databases, Strategy Documents, a NAP, Programmes etc.

Reporting Monitoring and Review

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P U b L i C At i oN S

Zimbabwe’s National Climate Change Response Strategy ZIMBABWE

Zimbabwe’s National Climate Change Response Strategy

GOVERNMENT OF ZIMBABWE MINISTRY OF ENVIRONMENT, WATER AND CLIMATE

and is also of the view that climate change has the potential to undermine many of the positive developments made in its meeting the country’s development goals. Both climate change and policies to minimize its effects have enormous socio-economic and environmental implications. The challenge for the country is how to develop adaptation strategies that can reduce and mitigate the diverse and complex impacts of climate change. The National Climate Change Response Strategy is a response to this challenge and also aims to contribute towards achieving Zimbabwe’s Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation (Zim Asset) 2013-2018 and beyond.

SOURCE http://www4.unfccc.int DOWNLOAD http://bit.ly/2hd6Dfw

Anna Brazier

Climate Change in Zimbabwe

❘ Climate Change in Zimbabwe

❘ Facts for Planners and Decision Makers

Facts for Planners and Decision Makers

Climate Change in Zimbabwe: Facts for Planners and Decision Makers

So what do Zimbabweans think about climate change? Last year Research and Advocacy Group (RAU) conducted a rapid study to try to find out. The results showed that while many have heard of climate change few understand exactly what it means or what causes it. Even less could say how climate change was going to affect Zimbabwe in the future or what they could do about it. RAU consulted the experts and developed a book to give Zimbabweans some information to help them plan for the future. This book will be distributed to planners and decision-makers in government and civic society and is available online. RAU hopes that the book will be taken by others, translated, summarised and made useful for people at many different levels of society.

SOURCE http://www.kas.de DOWNLOAD http://bit.ly/2g79SE7

CHILDREN AND CLIMATE CHANGE IN ZIMBABWE

April 2014

Children And Climate Change In Zimbabwe

The Institute of Environmental Studies (IES) in partnership with UNICEF carried out a study on the vulnerabilities of children to the impacts of climate change and climate variability, and how these interact with children’s social and physical vulnerabilities. This process involved soliciting children’s views, knowledge and experiences on the impacts of climate change, so that the special needs of children can be incorporated into national policies, planning and practices. The study facilitated the incorporation of children’s views and concerns into Zimbabwe’s National Climate Change Response Strategy, as well as their suggested strategies for action to combat climate change and to become more resilient to its negative impacts.

SOURCE https://www.unicef.org/zimbabwe/ DOWNLOAD http://uni.cf/2gZchlU

Climate Change WORKING PAPER NO.3 : DECEMBER 2012

Climate change impacts, vulnerability and adaptation in Zimbabwe Donald Brown, Rabecca Rance Chanakira, Kudzai Chatiza, Mutuso Dhliwayo, David Dodman, Medicine Masiiwa, Davison Muchadenyika, Prisca Mugabe and Sherpard Zvigadza

Climate change impacts, vulnerability and adaptation in Zimbabwe

This paper reviews impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change in Zimbabwe, with the intention of providing a broad overview of the key issues related to climate change facing this particular country. It draws on a set of background papers that were produced by the Policy and Advocacy for Climate Change in Zimbabwe project funded by the UK Department for International Development (DfID) and implemented by IIED, the Zimbabwe Regional Environment Organisation (ZERO), and Dialogue on Shelter. These papers examine climate trends, scenarios and projections for Zimbabwe and draw upon a variety of case studies on adaptation projects.

www.iied.org

SOURCE http://pubs.iied.org/pdfs/ DOWNLOAD http://bit.ly/2hdfpKp

Potential Effects Of Climate Change On Corn Production In Zimbabwe

This study uses Global Circulation Models (GCMs) and the dynamic crop growth model CERES-Maize to assess the potential effects of climate change on corn (Zea :nays L.) in Zimbabwe. Corn is the most widely grown crop in Zimbabwe and is often under environmental stress due to high ambient temperature and low rainfall conditions.

Global climate change scenanos suggest corn pro- ductivity in Zimbabwe will decrease dramatically under non-irrigated or irrigated conditions in some regions of agricultural production. The reductions in corn yields are primarily attributed to ambient temperature increases which shorten the crop growth penod, particularly the grainfilling penod. If cli- mate effects occur farmers may find corn production an unacceptably risky activity. Adaptation options are available but financial costs may be prohibitive to communal area farmers.

SOURCE http://www.int-res.com DOWNLOAD http://bit.ly/2gh4Icg

SERVICES Rural and Urban Areas Solar Power Back-up Power/Hybrid Systems

Samansco a division of Nyamavhuvhu Energy / Ecological Designs was founded in 1982 to promote appropriate technologies and sustainable development in Southern Africa. The primary focus of the company has been renewable energy with a specific focus on Solar Photovoltaic Power (PV).

We have unmatched quality products and technical expertise. In Zimbabwe we are the exclusive partners for the world’s leading brands in solar equipment. Our operations are built around us thinking long term – our vision is to help shape a better tomorrow – what we do today will help the future generations. We have operations in Zambia (Lusaka) and Malawi on a project by project basis, we are working on further expanding to more African countries as part of our vision to power Africa.

Head Office : 331 Samora Machel Avenue Eastlea, Harare, Zimbabwe Tel: +263 4-442645/ +263 71 600 245 /+263 778 377 055 Email: info@samansco.com

Voltage Protection Solar Water Pumping Solar System for Telecommunications Solar Street Lighting and Security Systems Solar DC Power Refrigeration

www.samansco.com

Tweeted News Sustainable Development in Zimbabwe Use #SustainZim and follow us on twitter @SustainZimbabwe

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2 0 1 6 PA Rt N E R S We would like to recognise and thank all organisations, government agencies and individuals who have supported SustainZim’s inaugrual year of publishing. A special thanks to Tafadzwa Tarumbwa for tirelessly creating our stunning cartoons which raise awareness for various issues. Contact him for animations, cartoons or book illustrations on +263 77 299 8187 or tafadzwa2d@gmail.com. We would love to hear your suggestions on how we can improve and add value to the paper in 2017. Contact us on contribute@sustainzim.org.

Sponsoring Partners

HIVOS International (Regional Office) 20 Phillips Avenue Belgravia P.O. Box 2227 Harare, Zimbabwe T + 263 (0)4 706 704 | (0)4 250 463 T + 263 (0)4 706 125 F + 263 (0)4 791 981 E rosaf@hivos.co.zw

UNICEF Zimbabwe

UNDP Zimbabwe

T:+263 4 703941/2 or 731840 E: harare@unicef.org www.unicef.org/zimbabwe

Tel: 04 338836-44 Email: registry.zw@undp.org Web Address: www.zw.undp.org

Empowered lives. Resilient nations.

Contributing Partners ABA- Alternative Business Alliance Suite 208, 2nd Floor, St. Barbara Hse. Cnr. Leopold Takawira/Nelson Mandela Strs, Harare, Zimbabwe Tel:+263 774 586 005 Email:abaprograms8@gmail.com Tel: +263 733 545 433 Email: aba.opportunity@gmail.com Aquaculture Tel: +263 77 271 7646 / +263 77 380 2355 Tel: +263 71 283 1488 www.aquaculturezim.org/

OXFAM Environment Africa 11 Rossal Road, Greendale, Harare T: +263 4 492148/55 C: +263 772 249 730 E: collen@environmentafrica.org www.environmentafrica.org Family And Friends Of Rivers And Lakes In Zimbabwe (FAFORALIZ) No 27 Simon Mazorodze Street, Masvingo Cell: 0779994086 / 0783019050 Email: Infofaforaliz@gmail.com Email: tondemugova@gmail.com

Block 9, Norfolk Road Arundel Office Park, Mt. Pleasant, T: +263 4 2918473 / 4 700 824 C: +263 (0) 773 282 485 www.oxfaminzimbabwe.org

Park Lane, Harare, Zimbabwe Tel: +263 4 704 666

Tel: 0775 485 521 0717 485 521 Email: soetzimbabwe@gmail.com saveourenvironmenttrust@gmail.com Southern Alliance for Indigenous Resources (SAFIRE) Tel: 263 4 740 384-5/ 740 390 Email: info@safire.co.zw www.safireweb.org

Bio Innovation Zimbabwe T: + 263 772 158313 E: caroline@bio-innovation.org; E: hararefoodfestival@gmail.com www.bio-innovation.org; www.naturallyzimbabwean.com

Forestry Commission Email: makotoviolet@yahoo.com/ violet@forestry.co.zw Tel: 04-498436-9 www.forestry.co.zw

Tel: 04 (703305) Email: sandisiwe.dube@trocaire.org www.trocaire.org Practical Action Southern Africa T:+263 776631-3 E: practicalaction@ practicalaction.org.zw www.practicalaction.org/southernafrica

Green Impact Trust

Wildlife Vumba Tel: + 263 772 354 144 Email: wildlifebvumba@gmail.com https://twitter.com/wildlifebvumba

M: +263-0772 450457 F: Green Impact Trust T: @GreenImpactt Zimbabwe Office Business Council For Sustainable Development Zimbabwe Tel: +263 (0)4 251800/8 Email: kacherem@chemplex.co.zw

Junior Chamber International City (Zimbabwe) Mobile: +263 77 2 86 4237 Email: jcicityzw@gmail.com Twitter: @jcicityzimbabwe Facebook: /jcicityzimbabwe www.jci.cc/local/media/jcicityzim

chiedza@powerforall.org http://www.powerforall.org

Young Africa Tel: +263.42722 / 79770/23659/30076 Email: ya.zim@youngafrica.org www.youngafrica.org

The Editor and POVOAfrika Trust Staff wish all our readers and contributors a merry Christmas and Prosperous 2017!

Development Reality Institute T: +263 496987 E: info@driafrica.org www.driafrica.org

Kariba REDD+ Project T: +2634 774567729 E: info@carbongreenafrica.net www.carbongreenafrica.net

Environmental Management Agency 685/686 Lorraine/Faber Drive Bluffhill, Harare P.O Box 385, Causeway Harare Email: eep@ema.co.zw Fax: (04) 793123 www.ema.co.zw Phone:+263 4 305550 | TOLL FREE:08080028 Mobile: 0779565707 (Whatsapp)

Ministry of Environment, Water and Climate Tel: +263 4 701681 Email: climatechange@environment.gov.zw www.climatechange.gov.org

EVENTS

CONTRIBUTE

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Send us details in this format:-

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> Event name > Organiser > Start date > End date > Venue

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> City > Country > Description > Your name > Contacts

> Organisation > Organisation description > Contact Details

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S UStA i N A b i L i t y

Business Council for Sustainable Development Zimbabwe

T

he BCSDZ – actively promoting awareness, knowledge and practical expertise in Sustainable Development in business.The Business Council for Sustainable Development Zimbabwe (BCSDZ) was previously known as the Environmental Forum of Zimbabwe.It was formed 22 years ago by a group of leading business people in Zimbabwe who shared common concerns over environmental issues and who wished to make and encourage a commitment by business to the phased implementation of environmental management programmes, and assist in enhancing appropriate knowledge.

The founding members’ companies have continued to be actively involved, and have been joined by many others over the years.While the original focus was on environmental management, in subsequent years it steadily broadened its agenda in line with international thinking to encompass Sustainable Development, involving the three

interlinked pillars of economic growth, ecological balance and social progress.

The change of name was therefore a logical progression. While the BCSDZ has always been and still is entirely autonomous, it also more clearly aligned the BCSDZ with the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), of which it is a long-standing globalal network partner.

The BCSDZ is founded on a Constitution, Mission Statement and Code of Conduct with a Board of Trustees. The Council, which is the policy-making body, can have up to twelve elected representatives from the membership and meets quarterly. A Management Committee oversees the implementation of the BCSDZ’s objectives.There is a Branch in Bulawayo, and a recently restructured Branch in Mutare.The BCSDZ has six Technical Committees on: Climate Change & Emissions; Energy ; Environmental Management Act (EMA); Water ; Waste; and Sustainability Reporting. A Technical Committee on Biodiversity & Business is being resuscitated .

Mushrooms and Sustainable Farming

In achieving its role as a catalyst in the bringing together and sharing of knowledge and helping to build capacity on a broad range of Sustainable Development topics the BCSDZ arranges popular seminars, technical workshops, field days, training and an annual two-day conference. At the conclusion of each annual conference a CD of the Presentations is produced and these CD’s now constitute a formidable body of knowledge. The BCSDZ also produces a quarterly electronic newsletter “BCSDZ Update” which is emailed to all members, as well as Bulletins and Guidance Notes as required. A feature of the BCSDZ’s activities is that many are carried out in close liaison with member organisations that host various events, provide speakers on their respective experiences and give generous sponsorship in various forms. Members who serve on the BCSDZ’s structure of various Committees do so out of personal commitment and as a community service, giving freely of their time.

E N E Rgy

As electricity load shedding continues, and poverty levels continue to rise some opt to use firewood instead of electricity, others simply have no electricity. These are some of the factors that have seen the demand for firewood shooting up in urban areas. When we started doing mushrooms we used firewood to fire our boilers for sterilisation which caused damage to the environment. I learnt how to use the sawdust stove from Epworth residents. This has led us to stop using firewood and use sawdust from factories and sawmills. This decision tackled two challenges: Reduce impact on deforestation and management of industrial waste.

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

The Green Snippets DROUGHT

From Bad to Worse: Deepening Impacts of Zimbabwe’s Drought At present, Zimbabwe’s future appears precariously poised on an edge. Two consecutive years of poor rains, compounded by El Niño, have resulted in the worst drought in 35 years. It is estimated that more than four million people will require emergency humanitarian aid to get them through to the end of the lean season in March 2017.

[Source: https://www.refugeesinternational.org]

COP21

Zimbabwe: COP21 Agrees On Climate Deal Negotiators at the Conference of Parties 21 in Paris, France have agreed on a deal to slow down climate change, but African countries are not happy because developed countries have refused to accept liability or compensation resulting in lack of clarity on financing for loss and damage, Climate Change Department director Mr Washington Zhakata has said.

[Source: http://allafrica.com]

Towards a more active participation of Africa in COP 21 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, 30 October 2015 (ClimDev-Africa) – The 5th Annual Conference on Climate Change and Development in Africa (CCDA 5) which ended in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe at the weekend has emboldened Africa for a more positive participation at the forthcoming climate talks in Paris, according to Dr. Fatima Denton, Coordinator of the African Climate Policy Centre (ACPC), and Director of the Special Initiatives Division at the UN Economic Commission for Africa.

[Source: http://www.uneca.org]

CLIMATE CHANGE

Zimbabwe Submits its Climate Action Plan Ahead of 2015 Paris Agreement Bonn, 30 September 2015 – The Republic of Zimbabwe submitted its new climate action plan to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) comes well in advance of a new universal climate change agreement which will be reached at the UN climate conference in Paris, in December this year. This INDC and all others submitted by countries are available on the UNFCCC website here. Including Zimbabwe, 121 parties to the UNFCCC have formally submitted their INDCs. [Source: http://newsroom.unfccc.int] SOLAR ENERGY

Solar PV in Zimbabwe Gather sawdust from a sawmill or factory and compact sawdust in a container with a hole in the center (put a pipe in the centre remove after compaction) put ash or soil on top surface so that top part doesn’t burn, only the hole will.

STEP 4

Put bricks where you will place your stove so that oxygen can enter the hole from beneath, as you light stove it will draw oxygen from beneath.

Fold a newspaper light it and insert into the middle or insert and light from beneath add more newspapers till sawdust is burning on its own.

6

STEP 5

This one burns

HRS average 6 hours.

Green Rhino Energy is developing a 50MW solar photovoltaic power station in Marondera, 70km east of Harare, in a joint venture with a local developer. Zimbabwe is a land-locked country in southern Africa with one of the best conditions for solar pv worldwide. Zimbabwe imports 41% of its power and has an estimated deficit of 2GW in generating capacity.

In order to accelerate economic development in the country, and to decrease reliance on energy imports, Zimbabwe is attracting investors into its energy infrastructure. The solar pv station will provide electricity for 80,000 people and allow economic growth. We have created a joint venture company with a local partner, De Green Rhino Energy, incorporated in Zimbabwe. [Source: http://www.greenrhinoenergy.com] WETLANDS

Destruction of wetlands fuelling Harare water crisis: EMA

I use a big container for more heat and it burns longer (5-6 hours) .

Use a small container for cooking.

Once burning, put an iron sheet on top leaving spaces for air to escape, this reduces heat as the heat can be too much for cooking. Once burning and getting enough air this stove is smokeless.

The Home of Mushrooms in Zimbabwe 0773 842 677

nmupaso@mushtella.com

www.mushtella.com

“The misuse of wetlands by turning them into residential, business or farming areas is the root cause of water crisis in Zimbabwe. The housing and planning department is blind towards the issues of wetlands hence the peg stands on wetlands,” Mudzingwa said. He also said politicians should desist from allocating stands for vote-buying because some stands will end up being allocated on wetlands. Environmental Management Agency (EMA) spokesperson, Steady Kangata, said wetlands should not be destroyed because they help reduce floods. “There are places for farming, but people, especially in urban areas, still choose to farm on wetlands.

Wetlands play a big role in preventing and reducing flooding during the rainy season and with the coming La Nina-induced drought people should preserve them,” Kangata said.

[Source: https://www.newsday.co.zw]