Launch of EUR 6 Million German-Funded Climate-Based Adaptation Project in Zimbabwe

CARE International and its partners have initiated the Community-Based Adaptation: Scaling up Community Action for Livelihoods and Ecosystems in Southern Africa and Beyond (CBA-SCALE Southern Africa+) project, with funding from the German Government’s Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV-IKI).

This climate-based adaptation project is currently being carried out in Mozambique, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, with a primary focus on enhancing community resilience to climate change while protecting ecosystems and biodiversity in the region and beyond.

The total funding allocated to Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique under BMUV-IKI’s support amounts to Euro 19,996,120, with Zimbabwe receiving Euro 6.6 million for the project. In Zimbabwe, the project aims to benefit around 18,800 direct beneficiaries and approximately 190,000 indirect beneficiaries in Bikita and Chiredzi.

During the project launch event, the German Ambassador to Zimbabwe underscored Germany’s commitment to addressing climate change through collective action and international cooperation. The Ambassador emphasized the importance of the Paris Agreement and Germany’s dedication to limiting global temperature rise and supporting vulnerable nations in adapting to the changing climate.

Amkela Sidange, Director of Education and Publicity Manager for the Environmental Management Agency (EMA), speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, highlighted the National Development Plan and Zimbabwe’s National Climate Policy as crucial frameworks guiding the country’s efforts towards addressing climate change.

Sidange emphasized the significance of community-based structures and the inclusive approach of the project, stating that engaging communities in the planning process ensures context-specific interventions and promotes a sense of ownership and empowerment among the people. This inclusive approach aligns with the government’s policy of leaving no one and no place behind.

Patrick Sikana, Country Director of CARE International, stressed the importance of collective responsibility in combating climate change. He emphasized that no single entity can tackle the complexities of climate change alone and that the project will provide valuable lessons that can be applied in other communities, reassuring them that support is still available.