Zimbabwe Launches US$30 Million Youth-Led Climate Initiative to Strengthen Resilience and Community Development
Providence Moyo
Zimbabwe has launched a US$30 million youth-led climate and community development initiative aimed at strengthening climate resilience while positioning young people at the centre of sustainable development.
The programme, supported by the Green Climate Fund in partnership with Save the Children and other development stakeholders, seeks to empower adolescents and youth to lead climate action and community-based solutions across the country.
Speaking at the launch, Vice President Kembo Mohadi said the initiative reflects government’s commitment to investing in young people as key drivers of national development.
“This programme reflects our commitment as a government to place young people at the centre of development. Climate change is already affecting our communities, and empowering youth is the most sustainable response,” he said.
Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife Evelyn Ndlovu said the programme comes at a critical time as climate impacts intensify.
“Climate change is already reshaping the way our communities live and produce. If we are to build true resilience, we must empower young people with the skills, innovation, and resources to lead climate action from the ground up,” she said.
Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Anxious Masuka highlighted the link between climate action and food security, noting the role of youth in climate-smart agriculture.
“You cannot separate climate action from agriculture. Our young people must be equipped to lead in climate-smart farming, conservation, and innovation if we are to secure the nation’s food systems,” said Masuka.
Chief Executive Officer of Save the Children, Inger Ashing, said young people should be treated as partners in climate resilience efforts.
“We see young people not just as beneficiaries, but as partners. When given the right tools and platforms, they can transform their communities and respond effectively to climate challenges,” she said.
Youth climate advocate Praise Ndlovu welcomed the initiative, saying it provides opportunities for meaningful participation.
“This programme gives us a voice and an opportunity. Many of us have ideas on how to tackle issues like drought and waste, but we lack support. Now we can turn those ideas into action,” she said.
The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of young people, particularly in vulnerable rural and urban communities. It will support youth-led projects in climate-smart agriculture, renewable energy, waste management, and disaster risk reduction.
In rural areas, activities will include community gardens and water harvesting techniques aimed at improving resilience and food security. In urban centres, the programme will focus on green entrepreneurship, recycling, and clean energy innovation.
The initiative also prioritises inclusivity, targeting young women, persons with disabilities, and marginalised communities to ensure equitable access.
Stakeholders said monitoring and evaluation systems will be implemented to track progress, ensure accountability, and inform future policy on youth development and climate action.
The launch signals a growing policy shift towards youth-driven, community-based approaches to sustainable development in Zimbabwe.
