By Andrew Muvishi
As Zimbabwe faces intensifying droughts and erratic rainfall, a Harare bootcamp has highlighted climate change misinformation as a major barrier to action.
The event was held under the theme ‘Fakenews Fighters Bootcamp’ and was organized by Magamba Network.
It brought together journalists, students, and climate activist to debunk persistent myths including claims that climate change is a hoax.
Danger of Myths
Climate experts say such narratives are dangerous in a country already feeling the effects.
Zimbabwe’s average temperatures have risen by about 1°C over the past century, while rainfall has declined by nearly 5%, according to national climate data.
More than 70% of Zimbabweans depend on rain-fed agriculture, making communities highly vulnerable to shifting weather patterns.
Award-winning journalist Mactilda Mbenywe said misinformation continues to undermine public understanding.
“From El Nino induced droughts to disasters like Cyclone Idai, the evidence is clear that climate change is real and affecting us now,” she said.
Experts warned that false claims circulating on social media are delaying critical responses.
This particular in rural areas where climate impacts are already severe.
Climate Action Against Disinformation Coalition Communication co-chair Philip Newell supported the same.
He warned that myths such as claims that climate change is purely natural or cannot be influenced by human activity undermine efforts to build resilience.
“Science is clear human activities, especially the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, are accelerating climate change.
“If we do not correct misinformation we risk delaying solutions that communities desperately need,” he said.
Recent seasons have already exposed the risks.
Climate Change In Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe has experienced recurrent droughts, flash floods, and declining water levels in key reservoirs.
This has affected both urban supplies and rural livelihoods.
Participants stressed that addressing disinformation is essential for effective solutions.
These include climate-smart agriculture and renewable energy adoption.
“Climate change is not a distant threat,” said one of the participants.
“Unless we confront the myths around it, our responses will remain too slow.”
