The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has called for urgent investment in ecosystem restoration, afforestation and wetland protection as the country grapples with the growing impact of climate change and environmental degradation.
In a statement, the Commission warned that droughts, floods and the destruction of natural ecosystems continue to threaten livelihoods and sustainable development across the country.
"The Commission is concerned that Zimbabwe continues to experience increasingly severe climate-related events in the form of droughts and floods," the statement said.
The ZHRC noted that environmental degradation arising from deforestation, wetland destruction, pollution, biodiversity loss and unsustainable mining practices is placing additional pressure on communities and ecosystems.
To address these challenges, the Commission urged government, businesses and communities to strengthen environmental protection efforts and ensure the effective enforcement of environmental laws.
"In order to preserve our environment for posterity, we need to adopt strategies such as the restoration of degraded ecosystems; investment in afforestation, reforestation and wetland restoration," the Commission said.
The Commission said sustainable development requires balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, warning that environmental damage could undermine long-term national development goals.
"The theme is a reminder that our survival and that of future generations depends on our ability to work in harmony with nature while being mindful of the impact of climate change," the statement said.
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The ZHRC also highlighted its ongoing engagement with stakeholders on environmental issues, including efforts to promote responsible practices in sectors such as mining and natural resource management.
