The silent victims of climate change: Zim’s childr...

The silent victims of climate change: Zim’s children share their fears and hopes

**According to reports, over half of Cyclone Idai's victims were children**

Philemon Jambaya

“We are the future of Zimbabwe, but climate change is threatening our present,” Tanaka Marova, a Zimbabwean child climate change activist said.

Climate change has a devastating impact on children in Zimbabwe. Children are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change than adults, and they are less able to cope with the challenges it poses.

One of the most immediate effects of climate change in Zimbabwe is drought.

“Droughts are becoming more frequent and severe, and they are having a devastating impact on agriculture. When there is no rain, crops fail, and families go hungry. Children are particularly vulnerable to malnutrition during droughts, as they need a nutritious diet to grow and develop properly,” Emmanuel Mapiravana, an environment activist said.

Climate change is also impacting children’s health in the country.

Heat waves are becoming more common, and they can lead to heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses. Air pollution is also a growing challenge in Zimbabwe, which is exacerbated by climate change. Air pollution can cause respiratory problems and other health issues, especially in children.

Green Zimbabwe Network Programmes Manager, Tatenda Mkudu said climate change has a negative impact on children’s mental health.

“Climate change also has a significant impact on children’s mental health in Zimbabwe. Children who experience droughts or other climate-related disasters are at increased risk of developing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

“Climate change is a complex issue, and there is no easy solution. However, there are things that we can do to protect children from the worst effects of climate change in Zimbabwe. We need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, invest in climate adaptation measures, and build resilience in communities that are most vulnerable to climate change,” said Mkudu.

We also need to give children a voice in the climate conversations. Children are the ones who will inherit the planet, and they have a right to be heard. We need to listen to their concerns and empower them to take action to protect their future.

“I’m scared of climate change. I don’t want my crops to fail because of drought. I don’t want to get sick from polluted air. I want to be able to have a good education and a bright future,” Melusi Mhonda, a student from Murewa said.

“Our home was destroyed by Cyclone Idai. I lost all of my belongings,” Tsitsi Mtetwa of Chimanimani said.

These are just a few examples of the many Zimbabwean children who are impacted by climate change.

Friends of the Environment Zimbabwe Programmes Officer, Chido Nekati said everyone has a role to play in protecting children from the effects of climate change.

“We can all do our part to help protect children from the effects of climate change. We can reduce our carbon footprint by making changes to our lifestyle, such as driving less, using less energy, and eating less meat. We can also support organisations that are working to address climate change and to help communities adapt to its impacts,” she said.