Staff Reporter
UNICEF Zimbabwe, with financial support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), has launched the “Climate Action for the Last Mile” project aimed at tackling climate change in vulnerable communities. This initiative is unique in its approach, as it involves local children in the co-creation of climate solutions, ensuring their experiences are reflected in the project’s design.
In an interview with this publication, Dr. Rachael Nyathi, UNICEF Zimbabwe’s Climate Change Specialist, emphasized the importance of youth involvement.
“It is essential that we include children in climate action decisions. They are the ones who experience the impacts of climate change daily, and their insights will help us design more effective, community-specific solutions. Their voices are crucial in ensuring these interventions meet the needs of the most vulnerable,” she said.
UNICEF Zimbabwe project emphasizes the significance of child-led action in climate change initiatives. Local schools and youth organizations will continue to play a key role in promoting climate resilience, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the project.
“When children are empowered with knowledge and the ability to influence change, they become leaders in their communities, driving lasting solutions for climate action,” Dr Nyathi added.
The financial support from KOICA enables the project to reach local communities and implement targeted interventions. KOICA’s support aligns with South Korea’s broader development goals to promote sustainable practices in Africa.
KOICA’s Zimbabwe Country Programme Manager, Mr. Minho Park, noted, “By supporting projects like this, we are not only helping Zimbabwe address climate change but also fostering a collaborative approach to global sustainability. This partnership is an example of how international cooperation can drive meaningful change in local communities.”
Meanwhile, the initiative also aims to raise awareness about the link between climate change and its effects on children’s health and education. Through workshops and education programmes, children are being equipped with knowledge to advocate for environmental protection and resilience-building in their communities.
Through this partnership, UNICEF Zimbabwe and KOICA are working to create a more inclusive and sustainable approach to climate action, ensuring thatvoices of the most vulnerable are heard and acted upon.
