BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI
The Zimbabwe Economic Development Conference (ZEDCON) 2024 has come to a close, amid calls for unified solutions to counter climate.
The conference, held from September 15 to 17, brought together researchers, policymakers, and the private sector to discuss building resilience and driving economic transformation in the face of climate change.
Accountant General Edwin Zvandasara made the closing remarks, expressing gratitude to participants for their valuable contributions and active engagement. “I want to express my gratitude to each one of you for your invaluable contributions and active participation. Over the past three days, we have engaged in rigorous discussions and exchanged insights under the theme ‘Building Resilience and Driving Economic Transformation Under Climate Change,’” he said.
Zvandasara highlighted the inspiring depth of knowledge and expertise shared, emphasizing the urgency and opportunities presented by climate change. “The depth of knowledge and expertise shared has been nothing short of inspiring, from the in-depth analysis of meteorology trends, their implications, and innovative strategies to climate-proofing agriculture. We have collected powerful insights to bolster our economic and environmental resilience.”
The conference served as a platform for experts and practitioners to share valuable experiences, highlighting both the urgency and opportunities presented by climate change. Zvandasara acknowledged the collaborative spirit and support from partners, including the United Nations Development Program.
As Zimbabwe grapples with the devastating effects of climate change, President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called for urgent action to build resilience and drive economic transformation. The country has been plagued by floods, including the devastating Cyclone Idai, and is currently reeling from the El Nino effect, which has left over seven million people facing dire food shortages. The economy is on the brink, and the need for action has never been more pressing.
George Guvamatanga, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance and Investment Promotion, echoed the President’s sentiments, highlighting the need for adaptation and mitigation measures to cope with the impacts of climate change.
The inputs from ZEDCON 2024 will inform the 2025 budget formulation, and the conference has laid a solid foundation for progress.