ADVICE MUKONO
The Dutch Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi, Dr. Margret Verwijk, dedicated the King’s Day celebrations at her residence in Harare to address the critical issue of Climate change and human actions on the environment.
Sighting the El Nino-induced drought affecting Zimbabwe and the region at large, Ambassador Verwijik said: “Greenhouse gas emissions continue to change weather patterns around the world, making such events more common and more severe.
“Destruction and pollution of critical ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, rivers and soil make us less able to cope with these changes.”
She implored everyone to watch their actions and be part of the solutions rather than looking to others to solve the environmental challenges.
“Each of us must adopt eco-conscious habits in our daily lives, reducing our carbon footprint, minimising waste, and being more sustainable in our consumption.
“For example, in the Netherlands, cycling has become a way of life. It has made our people healthier and happier, our cities more accessible, while reducing pollution.
“Making cycling possible requires good planning and infrastructure. And it is possible for Harare! Many people are reliant on biking already,” she said.
She urged Zimbabwe’s influential people to speak out for the environment and protect the country’s abundant natural ecosystems.
Ambassador Verwijik said climate action is a catalyst for improvement on many goals and can yield a double dividend to change lives.
“In the hot and dry low-lying wards of Chimanimani, our partner PORET is training youth in permaculture and water harvesting. The ambition is to see them improve food production while protecting the environment.
“But with the new skills and knowledge, they have started to run their own workshops, seed fairs, and tree nurseries in their communities. Two young women improved their family gardens so much, they were rewarded with land of their own. This is a huge step towards their independence, and has earned them a seat at the table in community affairs,” she said.
Commenting on the Dutch’s commitment to supporting climate adaptation and mitigation, Ambassador Verwijik said the country’s climate strategy takes a sector-wide approach and includes reductions by government.
“Our Ministry of Foreign Affairs requires Embassies to be carbon neutral by 2030. We are on it! Our switch to solar energy is nearly complete, and will sustainably power our work, and the hybrid vehicles we will start to use later this year.”
Dutch support for climate action, Ambassador Verwijik added, is not just through the Embassy’s climate budget and work promoting sustainable business and trade but there are also significant funds allocated by the Netherlands to multi-lateral partnerships such as the Green Climate Fund, United Nations, and European Union, which are working across the region, including Zimbabwe.
She also said the Netherlands is increasing its contribution to global climate finance each year, targeting US$1.8 billion by 2025.
