Staff Reporter
In a decisive move to safeguard the livelihoods of its most vulnerable citizens, the Government of Zimbabwe, together with key international partners, has launched the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF) Phase 2, valued at US$17.2 million.
This landmark programme is designed to strengthen the capacity of 450,000 vulnerable Zimbabweans to better withstand the impacts of climate change and natural disasters.
The launch ceremony was attended by representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office of Zimbabwe, the European Union, and the Government of Ireland, highlighting the critical importance of this initiative.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, yesterday, Permanent Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Professor Obert Jiri, underscored the programme as a vital step in building resilient rural communities.
“ZRBF Phase 2 aims to build resilience in vulnerable rural areas, ensure sustainable natural resource management for climate action, improve food and nutrition security, and lower the impact of natural disasters in at-risk communities across Zimbabwe. Building on the successes of Phase 1—where over 1 million people received support, including 62 percent women and 25 percent youth—the new phase promises to broaden its impact even further.
“The programme will focus on key outcomes, such as evidence generation, capacity building, improved natural resources management, enhanced sustainable livelihoods, and strengthened climate and disaster risk governance. One of the strategic elements of the initiative is the development of early warning and early action systems that are essential to protecting developmental gains,” he stated.
UNDP Zimbabwe Representative, Dr Ayodele Odusolaremarked on the significance of ZRBF Phase 2.
“This initiative represents a pivotal step towards strengthening the resilience of vulnerable communities. By enhancing sustainable natural resource management and ensuring food and nutrition security in the face of climate change, we are taking concrete action to safeguard the future of Zimbabwe’s communities,” he said.
Ambassador Austin Gormley of Ireland underscored the direct benefits of the programme.
“I am excited to be part of this joint effort and urge all partners and stakeholders to fully commit to its success. The Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund will directly support ordinary men and women in communities at risk of climate hazards,” he said, stressing that the initiative is a clear demonstration of international solidarity with Zimbabwe.
The European Union’s Ambassador, Jobst von Kirchmann, also highlighted the importance of cooperation, noting, “Resilience building must be a joint, long-term effort. By working together and building on past successes, we can create lasting, positive change for the people of Zimbabwe.”
UN Resident Coordinator, Edward Kallon concluded by reaffirming the United Nations’ commitment to Zimbabwe’s sustainable development goals.
“Resilience is key in building communities. I am pleased that our partnerships will help Zimbabwe achieve its sustainable development goals. This launch is a call to action, and together, using an integrated financial system, we will make a real difference,” he declared.
With ZRBF Phase 2 now underway, Zimbabwe is taking a bold step towards creating a safer, more resilient future for its citizens—a future where communities are empowered to adapt, thrive, and overcome the challenges posed by a changing climate.
