Providence Moyo
Despite increasing global commitments towards climate action and sustainable development, many communities on the frontline of climate change continue to see little benefit from climate finance initiatives, ActionAid Zimbabwe has said.
Speaking at the launch of Pathways for Green Governance: Energy Transition, Climate Finance and Ecofeminism, a publication produced by Green Governance Africa Trust (GGZT), ActionAid Zimbabwe Country Director Dr Selina C. Pasirayi stressed the need for climate policies that place people, equity, and accountability at the centre of decision-making.
Dr Pasirayi said that while governments and development partners are investing heavily in renewable energy and green growth strategies, there is a risk that vulnerable groups could be excluded if social justice concerns are overlooked.
She noted that climate finance should not only focus on funding projects but must also ensure that resources reach communities most affected by environmental challenges such as droughts, floods, and land degradation.
“Good green governance recognises that social equity, ecological integrity, and economic prosperity are interconnected and must advance together,” she said.
Dr Pasirayi highlighted the importance of ensuring that Zimbabwe’s energy transition benefits all citizens, particularly women and girls, who often bear the greatest burden of energy poverty.
She said women spend significant amounts of time undertaking unpaid domestic and care work while facing barriers to accessing energy resources, land ownership, financing opportunities, and technology.
According to Dr Pasirayi, a truly inclusive transition to clean energy should create economic opportunities, reduce inequalities, and empower women to participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives and communities.
She also called for greater involvement of young people in climate governance, arguing that youth should be recognised as active contributors rather than passive beneficiaries of future climate policies.
“Youth voices and leadership are critical in shaping sustainable solutions to today’s climate challenges,” she said.
Dr Pasirayi urged governments, private-sector actors, and civil society organisations to create platforms that allow young people to meaningfully influence policy formulation, innovation, and investment decisions.
The publication explores how governance systems, climate finance mechanisms, and ecofeminist approaches can contribute to more inclusive and sustainable environmental policies at a time when countries across Africa are accelerating efforts to transition towards greener economies.
