Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter
Zimbabwe has launched a US$14.5 million Disaster Risk Financing Action Project, aimed at enhancing the country’s capacity to manage climate-related emergencies and safeguard vulnerable communities. The initiative, backed by the African Development Bank, was unveiled at a high-level event in Harare yesterday.
Speaking at the launch on behalf of Local Government Minister Daniel Garwe, Chief Director of the Department of Civil Protection, Nathan Nkomo, emphasised the importance of the government’s partnership with the AfDB. He highlighted the tangible impact of previous funding, including the US$24.7 million provided during the 2019–2020 cycle, which significantly improved disaster response infrastructure following Cyclone Idai.
“Thanks to these resources, we have successfully restored essential services such as irrigation, energy supply, and telecommunications in areas like Chipinge and Chimanimani,” said Nkomo.
He added that the new project will focus on strengthening institutional systems for climate risk prediction and response, to ensure timely and effective disaster management.
Belinda Chesile, AfDB Zimbabwe programme officer, represented country manager Moono Mutopola at the event. She underscored the shift toward proactive risk financing.
“This program is a new way to deliver development finance, ensuring we build resilience proactively rather than responding reactively,” she said, noting the devastating impact of the ongoing El Niño-induced drought — the worst dry spell in over a century.
The project arrives at a critical time, as Zimbabwe grapples with severe food and water shortages, exacerbated by erratic weather patterns and reliance on rain-fed agriculture.
AfDB remains one of Zimbabwe’s most pivotal development partners, committed to promoting sustainable development and financial inclusion across the country.
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