In a significant move to address the escalating climate crisis, a Climate Justice Fair occurred Tuesday in Harare.
The event brought together diverse organizations from civil society, community-based groups, and international bodies.
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES), in collaboration with Moto Republik, hosted the event showcasing efforts in climate change management.
Hopewell Gumbo, the Program Coordinator at FES, highlighted the fair’s purpose, emphasizing the importance of collaboration.
“Today, we have a Climate Justice Fair where organizations from civil society and community-based groups in Zimbabwe, and some international organizations are here showcasing the work they are doing,” Gumbo stated.
“It is a chance for them to interact, exchange ideas, and explore potential partnerships in their work around dealing with the heavy crisis of climate change that we see in our country,” he added.
The Climate Justice Fair responds to the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat severe climate impacts in Zimbabwe.
“This has been exacerbated by the changing climate, to the extent that Zimbabwe has to work vigorously to ensure that its people do not become victims of the ravages of climate change,” Gumbo explained.
The fair featured various organizations presenting their initiatives aimed at climate adaptation and resilience. These efforts are crucial as Zimbabwe grapples with historical and contemporary climate challenges.
“After showcasing their work, there will be a final discussion on the reality of the climate change crisis in Zimbabwe, sharing views about adaptation, financing, and resilience,” Gumbo noted.
This collaborative effort underscores the need for a united front in addressing climate change.
The discussions are expected to foster stronger alliances and amplify the voices of those most affected by the climate crisis.
“We seek to bring together these partners to speak more loudly about dealing with the consequences of climate change, which is both a historical and current issue affecting our country,” Gumbo concluded.
The Climate Justice Fair marks a pivotal step in Zimbabwe’s journey toward sustainable climate resilience, highlighting the collective effort required to combat the growing climate challenges facing the nation.