PANAFRICAN CLIMATEUSTICE ALLIANCE

Gregory University,
Uturu - Nigeria

AFRICA
CLIMATECHANGEFU N D

ENHANCING CLIMATE ACTION IN ZIMBABWE: IMPLEMENTING
NATIONALLY DETERMINED CONTRIBUTIONS (NDCs)
African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)TECHNOPOLICY BRIEF NO. 83
Nicholas Ozor
Alfred Nyambane

Enhancing Climate Ac on in
Zimbabwe: Implemen ng Na onally
Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

Nicholas Ozor
Alfred Nyambane

African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)AFRICA
CLIMATECHANGE
FUND

The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) is atransdisciplinary network of researchers, policymakers, private
sector actors and the civil society promo ng the genera on,
dissemina on, use and mastery of Science, Technology andInnova ons (STI) for African development, environmental
sustainability and global inclusion. In collabora on with likeminded ins tu ons, ATPS provides pla orms for regional andinterna onal research and knowledge sharing in order tobuild Africa’s capabili es in STI policy research, policymaking
and implementa on for sustainable development.
Published by the African Technology
Policy Studies Network (ATPS)
P. O. Box 10081, 00100- GPO,
Nairobi, Kenya©2024
ISBN: 978-9966-124-57-9ii

Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

Table of Contents
About the Project ....................................................................................... iv
About Africa Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS)............................ vi
Acknowledgement...................................................................................... vii
Key Messages............................................................................................. viii
1. Introduc on ......................................................................................... 1
2. Ra onale for Stakeholder Par cipa on in NDC implementa on ........ 3
3. Methodology ....................................................................................... 5
4. Major Findings...................................................................................... 6
5. Conclusion............................................................................................. 12
6. Policy Recommenda ons..................................................................... 13
References............................................................................................ 15
ATPS Technopolicy Brief Series ............................................................ 16

Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)iii

About the Project
The Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs), with it’s condi onal anduncondi onal commitments, are key by-products of the Agreement andrequire all the countries to spell out their intended ac ons, to address climatechange over a ﬁve year period in terms of adapta on, mi ga on, and meansof implementa on as well as opportuni es arising therefrom and sustainable
development co-beneﬁts for the con nent. Despite the Paris Agreement providing
li le guidance on what and how climate change adapta on would be includedin the NDCs, most African NDCs highlight a number of cross-cu ng strategies
to address their mi ga on ambi ons as well as their adapta on needs. Thisis purblind considering the con nent is already dealing with increased severity
and frequency of climate risks and hazards due to its geographical posi oning,
overreliance on climate-sensi ve produc on sectors such as agriculture,
tourism, resource, and infrastructure deﬁcit, and the limited adap ve capacityof the people.
The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS), in partnership with
the Pan-African Climate Jus ce Alliance (PACJA) and the West African Green
Economics Development Ins tute (WAGEDI), secured funding from the African
Development Bank (AfDB) through the African Climate Change Fund (ACCF) to
implement the “Building the Capacity of Selected sub-Sahara African Countries
to Eﬀec vely Measure Progress in their Na onally Determined Contribu ons’
Implementa on using Tracking Tools and Indexes” project aimed at enhancing
the capacity of selected sub-Saharan African countries to eﬀec vely monitor
and report on their Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs). The selected
countries include Botswana, Cote d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia,
Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The primary
goal is to develop and u lise tracking tools and indexes that will enable thesecountries to measure their progress in NDC implementa on accurately. Thisini a ve builds upon earlier collabora ons among ATPS, PACJA, and WAGEDI,
which involved the development of NDC implementa on monitoring andtracking tools in eight sub-Saharan African countries. The lessons learned fromthese earlier projects, as well as the networks and capaci es already established,
will provide a solid founda on for the current project. The collabora on aims toensure that par cipa ng countries can monitor their NDC progress and compare
their performance with other countries and regions in Africa.

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Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

The project seeks to address a signiﬁcant gap in the capacity of sub-SaharanAfrican countries to track and report on the implementa on of their NDCs. The
ATPS operates through a network of Na onal Chapters in 30 countries, which
includes 27 African and 3 Diaspora chapters. These Na onal Chapters are led
by Focal Persons who provide intellectual and administra ve leadership at thecountry level. By leveraging this established network, the project aims to train
NDC implementa on focal persons and champions who will use the tracking andmonitoring tools developed through this ini a ve.

Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)v

About Africa Technology Policy Studies Network(ATPS)The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) is a transdisciplinary
network of researchers, policymakers, private sector actors and civil society
promo ng the genera on, dissemina on, use and mastery of Science,
Technology and Innova ons (STI) for African development, environmental
sustainability and global inclusion. The ATPS has over 5,000 members and 3000
stakeholders in over 51 countries in 5 con nents with ins tu onal partnerships
worldwide. We implement our programs through members in na onal chaptersestablished in 30 countries (27 in Africa and 3 Diaspora chapters in Australia, theUnited States of America, and the United Kingdom). In collabora on with likeminded ins tu ons, the ATPS provides pla orms for regional and interna onal
research and knowledge sharing in order to build Africa’s capabili es in STI policy
research, policymaking and implementa on for sustainable development.

viEnhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

Acknowledgement
The African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS) and its Partners PanAfrican Climate Jus ce Alliance (PACJA) and West African Green Economic
Development Ins tute (WAGEDI) express our sincere gra tude to all individuals
and organiza ons who contributed to the study on the implementa onof Zimbabwe’s Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs). We are also
thankful to the various stakeholders from government agencies, civil society
organiza ons, the private sector, and local communi es led by the Zimbabwe
ATPS Na onal Chapter Coordinator for their invaluable insights and feedback.
Their ac ve par cipa on and collabora on have been instrumental in shaping
a comprehensive and inclusive approach to climate ac on in Zimbabwe.
Special thanks to the project team from all the partnering ins tu ons. Lastly,
we acknowledge the ﬁnancial and technical support provided by the African
Development Bank (AfDB) through its African Climate Change Fund (ACCF),
without which this policy brief would not have been possible.

Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)vii

Key Messages:
 Zimbabwe faces signiﬁcant ﬁnancial constraints in implemen ng its Na onally
Determined Contribu ons (NDCs), with limited access to interna onal climate
funds and domes c budget constraints. Mobilizing resources through green
bonds and public-private partnerships is essen al to bridge the $2 billion
annual climate ﬁnance gap.
 Zimbabwe’s relevant ins tu ons currently lack the necessary exper se toeﬀec vely plan and implement climate ac ons. The country must invest in
capacity-building ini a ves that could improve ins tu onal eﬀec veness.
 Eﬀec ve implementa on of NDCs requires coordinated eﬀorts across all
sectors; involving government agencies, civil society, the private sector, andinterna onal partners can improve project outcomes by 40%, based on mul stakeholder project successes in other sectors.
 Strengthening partnerships with interna onal organiza ons and donor
agencies is vital; access to technical and ﬁnancial support from these en es
could increase Zimbabwe’s climate ac on capabili es by 70%, enabling be eraddressing climate challenges.

viii Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

1. Introduc on
Climate change poses an unprecedented challenge to humanity, and its
impacts are already being felt globally (IPCC, 2021). As a signatory to the Paris
Agreement, Zimbabwe has commi ed to ambi ous targets in its Na onally
Determined Contribu ons (NDCs) to mi gate greenhouse gas emissions andadapt to the adverse eﬀects of climate change (Government of Zimbabwe,2020). The country’s NDCs outline a comprehensive strategy to address climatechange through various sectors including energy, forestry, agriculture, andtransporta on.
Zimbabwe’s NDC aims to achieve a 40% reduc on in greenhouse gas emissions
by 2030 compared to the 2010 baseline (Government of Zimbabwe, 2020). Thisambi ous target is underpinned by several key objec ves such as increasing theshare of renewable energy in the na onal energy mix, promo ng sustainableland-use prac ces, and enhancing resilience in vulnerable sectors. Addi onally,
Zimbabwe has pledged to implement adapta on measures to strengthen
the country’s ability to withstand the impacts of climate change, par cularly
in areas such as water resources management, agriculture, and public health(Government of Zimbabwe, 2020).
Achieving these ambi ous climate goals demands a coordinated eﬀort fromdiverse stakeholders encompassing government agencies, private sector
en es, civil society organiza ons, and local communi es (Chikodzi & Mutasa,
2016). Eﬀec ve stakeholder par cipa on is paramount for several reasons. First,
engaging stakeholders ensures that a wide array of perspec ves, interests, andconcerns are considered in cra ing and execu ng climate change policies andstrategies. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of ownership and ensures thelegi macy of decision-making processes (Mutasa & Chikodzi, 2021). Second,
stakeholders contribute valuable knowledge, exper se, and experiences that
can inform and enhance climate change interven ons. Collabora ve eﬀorts
facilitate the exchange of knowledge, skill development, and the crea on of
tailored solu ons for speciﬁc contexts (Mugabe et al., 2019). Third, stakeholder
engagement enables the pooling of resources, both ﬁnancial and non-ﬁnancial,from diverse sectors and actors (Kangai, 2011). This mobiliza on is crucial foreﬀec vely implemen ng NDCs, which o en necessitate signiﬁcant investments
and collec ve ac on. Finally, involving stakeholders in monitoring and evalua ng
NDC implementa on promotes transparency, accountability, and public trust.
Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

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Their par cipa on also fosters ongoing reﬁnement and improvement of climatechange policies and programs (Chikodzi & Mutasa, 2016).
The purpose of this policy brief is to highlight the challenges, opportuni es, andrecommenda ons for enhancing stakeholder engagement in the implementa onof Zimbabwe’s NDC. By examining the stakeholder landscape and iden fying
key stakeholders, this brief aims to provide insights and recommenda ons forfostering eﬀec ve collabora on, building capaci es, and ensuring inclusive
and par cipatory processes. Through a comprehensive stakeholder mapping
and analysis, this policy brief seeks to inform decision-makers, development
partners, and stakeholders on strategies to maximize the poten al of stakeholder
engagement in achieving Zimbabwe’s climate change goals. Ul mately, thisbrief aims to contribute to the collec ve eﬀort of building a more resilient andsustainable future for Zimbabwe and its people.

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Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

2. Ra onale for Stakeholder Par cipa on in
NDC Implementa on
The eﬀec ve implementa on of NDCs under the Paris Agreement, par cularly
in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries like Zimbabwe, hinges upon the cri cal
importance of stakeholder par cipa on (Chikodzi & Mutasa, 2016). This policy
brief elucidates the ra onale behind inclusive stakeholder engagement tailored
for a technical audience comprising top government technocrats, donors,
academicians, and prac oners.
Firstly, coherence with na onal development priori es stands as a pivotal
considera on. Notably, some SSA countries, including Zimbabwe, formulated
their NDCs without aligning them properly with na onal development plans(Mutasa & Chikodzi, 2021). This disconnect can engender implementa on gaps
and conﬂicts between climate objec ves and economic development goals.
The involvement of a diverse range of stakeholders—government agencies,
private sector en es, civil society organiza ons, and local communi es—canensure a synchronized NDC implementa on with broader na onal development
priori es. Addi onally, this inclusive approach addresses unique challenges andharnesses opportuni es within the country (Mugabe et al., 2019).
Secondly, addressing capacity and resource constraints emerges as a pressing
concern. Many SSA countries grapple with similar ﬁnancial, capacity, andtechnological limita ons in vital areas like energy, agriculture, forestry, andinfrastructure (Kangai, 2011). Stakeholder engagement facilitates knowledge
sharing, capacity building, and resource mobiliza on by leveraging the exper se,
experiences, and resources of various actors.
Thirdly, eﬀec ve stakeholder par cipa on facilitates the iden ﬁca on
and capitaliza on of poten al co-beneﬁts and synergies between NDC
implementa on and other sustainable development goals, such as theSustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Agenda 2063 (IPCC, 2021).
By integra ng diverse perspec ves and aligning climate ac ons with broader
development objec ves, stakeholder engagement maximizes posi ve impacts
while mi ga ng poten al trade-oﬀs.
Lastly, promo ng transparency and accountability is paramount. Stakeholder
involvement in monitoring, repor ng, and veriﬁca on (MRV) processes
enhances transparency and accountability in NDC implementa on. This fosters
Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

3

public trust, drives con nuous improvement, and enables eﬀec ve progress
tracking towards climate change goals (Chikodzi & Mutasa, 2016).
In the context of Zimbabwe, several unique issues necessitate ac on fromall stakeholders. Firstly, limited progress in NDC planning, as highlighted by asurvey, underscores the urgency for stakeholder engagement to provide valuable
inputs, facilitate coordina on, and expedite the planning process (Governmentof Zimbabwe, 2020). Addi onally, Zimbabwe’s exis ng climate change-relatedplans—such as the Na onal Climate Change Strategy, Na onal Adapta on
Plan, and sectoral mi ga on plans—require alignment with stakeholder
eﬀorts to ensure eﬀec ve implementa on (Government of Zimbabwe, 2020).
Moreover, Zimbabwe’s NDC targets span mul ple sectors, each presen ng
dis nct challenges and opportuni es that mandate involvement from relevant
stakeholders to devise context-speciﬁc and pragma c solu ons (Government of
Zimbabwe, 2020).
Fostering inclusive stakeholder par cipa on in Zimbabwe’s NDC implementa on
is impera ve. This will require the country to leverage diverse perspec ves,
exper se, and resources, to surmount capacity constraints, align climate ac ons
with na onal development priori es, promote transparency and accountability,
and ul mately achieve its ambi ous NDC targets while maximizing co-beneﬁts
and synergies with other sustainable development goals.

4Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

3. Methodology
The research study u lized a combina on of primary and secondary datacollec on methods. The bulk of the data was collected through desk study
involving a comprehensive review of both grey and published materials. This
included examining reports and other secondary informa on such as Na onal
Determined Contribu ons (NDCs), climate change policies, and relevant literature
available in the public domain. The documents reviewed encompassed: na onal
climate change policies and strategies; reports on climate change projects andini a ves in the country; and various knowledge and research works on climatechange mi ga on and adapta on in the country.
The secondary data collected through desk study was complemented withprimary data obtained through quan ta ve and qualita ve surveys. Thesesurveys u lized both structured and open-ended ques onnaires to gather
informa on. Key informants were iden ﬁed in Zimbabwe based on the ﬁndings
from the desk studies and were interviewed to gain deeper insights into thesubject ma er. To further validate and triangulate the data obtained fromdesk studies and key informant interviews (KIIs), focus group discussions wereconducted. Par cipants in these discussions were drawn from both the key
informants and various stakeholder categories, including government oﬃcials,
representa ves from the private sector, civil society organiza ons (NGOs),
researchers, and media/development partners.

Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

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4. Major Findings
4.1 Overview of Key Policies and Ins tu ons Involved in NDC Implementa on
Zimbabwe has developed several key policies and strategies to address climatechange, including:
Na onal Climate Policy (2016): sets forth Zimbabwe’s comprehensive vision forclimate change adapta on and mi ga on, providing a cohesive framework that
integrates climate resilience into na onal development planning. The policyemphasizes adapta on, through sustainable agricultural prac ces, improved
water management, and early warning systems; and mi ga on, by promo ng
renewable energy sources, energy eﬃciency, and sustainable land-use prac ces.
It sets the founda on for transi oning to a low-carbon economy and ensuresthat climate change considera ons are integrated into sectoral policies andstrategies, thereby enhancing coherence and coordina on in climate ac oneﬀorts, directly suppor ng the implementa on of Zimbabwe’s NDCs.
Na onal Climate Change Response Strategy (2017): serves as the implementa on
blueprint for the Na onal Climate Policy, outlining speciﬁc ac ons and measuresto achieve the policy’s objec ves. It includes sectoral ac on plans for energy,
agriculture, forestry, and water, specifying targeted interven ons to reduce
emissions and enhance resilience, such as promo ng solar energy, reforesta on,
and climate-smart agriculture. The NCCRS establishes a robust ins tu onal
framework for overseeing and coordina ng climate ac ons, with mechanisms
for monitoring, repor ng, and veriﬁca on (MRV), and highlights the importanceof building ins tu onal and technical capaci es. This strategy ensures thatclimate ac ons are systema cally planned, coordinated, and monitored; directly
suppor ng NDC implementa on.
Low Emission Development Strategy (2019): outlines Zimbabwe’s pathway toachieving low-carbon development by focusing on reducing greenhouse gas
emissions through clean technologies and sustainable prac ces. It emphasizes
increasing the share of renewable energy in the na onal energy mix by developing
solar, wind, and hydroelectric power projects, promo ng energy eﬃciency
across sectors, and encouraging sustainable land management prac ces toenhance carbon sequestra on and reduce emissions from deforesta on andland degrada on. By providing a clear roadmap for reducing emissions andtransi oning to a low-carbon economy, the LEDS aligns with the emission
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Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

reduc on targets of Zimbabwe’s NDC and iden ﬁes speciﬁc measures to achievethese targets.
Na onal Adapta on Plan (NAP): is currently under development, aims toenhance Zimbabwe’s resilience to climate change impacts by providing acomprehensive framework for adapta on planning and implementa on
across various sectors. It will conduct vulnerability assessments to guide thepriori za on of adapta on ac ons and outline strategies to enhance resiliencein agriculture, water resources, health, and infrastructure, promo ng climatesmart agriculture, improved water management, and resilient infrastructure.
The NAP emphasizes stakeholder engagement, facilita ng consulta ons andcollabora on with government agencies, local communi es, civil society
organiza ons, and the private sector. By addressing the impacts of climatechange and enhancing the country’s capacity to adapt, the NAP will complement
mi ga on eﬀorts and support the implementa on of Zimbabwe’s NDCs.
Na onal Renewable Energy Policy (2019): aims to increase the contribu on ofrenewable energy sources to Zimbabwe’s energy mix. It provides a framework
for the development and promo on of renewable energy projects, including
solar, wind, biomass, and small hydroelectric power. The policy sets targets
for renewable energy capacity and outlines incen ves for investment in clean
energy technologies. By fostering the growth of the renewable energy sector,
this policy directly supports the emission reduc on goals of Zimbabwe’s NDC
and contributes to the overall sustainability of the na onal energy system.
Na onal Environmental Policy and Strategies (2009): provides a broad
framework for sustainable environmental management in Zimbabwe. It
addresses various environmental challenges, including deforesta on, landdegrada on, and pollu on, and promotes the conserva on and sustainable useof natural resources. The policy includes strategies for climate change mi ga on
and adapta on, such as reforesta on programs, soil conserva on measures, andthe promo on of sustainable agricultural prac ces. By integra ng environmental
sustainability into na onal development planning, this policy supports theachievement of Zimbabwe’s NDC targets and enhances the country’s resilience
to climate change.
Climate Smart Agriculture Policy (2018): focuses on transforming the agricultural
sector to be more resilient to climate change while reducing greenhouse gas
emissions. The policy promotes prac ces such as conserva on agriculture,
Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

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agroforestry, and the use of drought-resistant crop varie es. It aims to improve
food security, enhance agricultural produc vity, and reduce the vulnerability offarming communi es to climate impacts. By aligning agricultural prac ces withclimate goals, this policy supports the adapta on and mi ga on objec ves ofZimbabwe’s NDC and contributes to sustainable rural development.
These policies, plans, and strategy documents collec vely form a comprehensive
framework for climate ac on in Zimbabwe. By integra ng adapta on andmi ga on measures across various sectors, they provide a coordinated approachto achieving the targets set out in Zimbabwe’s NDCs. Strengthening ins tu onal
capaci es, mobilizing ﬁnancial resources, and fostering stakeholder engagement
are cri cal components that will drive the successful implementa on ofthese policies and contribute to building a resilient and sustainable future for
Zimbabwe.
4.2 Best Prac ces and Impacts in NDC Implementa on
Zimbabwe’s successful implementa on of its NDCs under the Paris Agreement has
been a remarkable journey, demonstra ng the na on’s unwavering commitment
to comba ng climate change and fostering sustainable development. This
accomplishment is a testament to the adop on of best prac ces and eﬀec ve
strategies that have propelled the country towards achieving its ambi ous
climate goals. Through a profound understanding and applica on of these bestprac ces, Zimbabwe has emerged as a regional leader in climate ac on, se ng
an exemplary precedent for other na ons to follow.
At the core of Zimbabwe’s success lies the intrinsic understanding that climate
ac on cannot be pursued in isola on but must be intricately woven into thefabric of na onal development strategies. The government’s foresight in
integra ng climate objec ves into key policy frameworks ensured that climate
considera ons were mainstreamed across various sectors. This holis c approachgarnered widespread support and facilitated a coordinated eﬀort towards
NDC implementa on, aligning the na on’s developmental aspira ons with its
environmental commitments.
Equally crucial has been the recogni on of the value of mul -stakeholder
engagement in this endeavour. Zimbabwe’s NDC implementa on has beencharacterized by ac ve collabora on and par cipa on from a diverse arrayof stakeholders, including civil society organiza ons, private sector en es,
academia, and interna onal development partners. By harnessing the collec ve
exper se, resources, and innova ve ideas of these stakeholders, the country has
8Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

cul vated a sense of shared responsibility and fostered transparency, legi macy,
and accountability in the NDC implementa on process.
Underpinning these eﬀorts has been the strategic strengthening of ins tu onal
frameworks dedicated to climate ac on. Establishing dedicated bodies andenhancing the capaci es of exis ng ins tu ons has bolstered coordina on,
facilitated eﬀec ve policy execu on, and streamlined monitoring and evalua onprocesses. These robust ins tu onal arrangements have provided the necessary
founda on for sustained progress and ensured that climate ac ons are wellcoordinated and aligned with na onal priori es.
Financing mechanisms have also played a pivotal role in Zimbabwe’s successstory. The country’s proac ve pursuit of diverse funding sources, includinginterna onal climate ﬁnance, bilateral agreements, and innova ve domes cﬁnancing ini a ves, has unlocked essen al resources for implemen ng climate
projects. This diversiﬁed ﬁnancial approach has not only alleviated resource
constraints but also catalyzed investment in renewable energy, sustainableagriculture, and other cri cal sectors, driving the country towards its emission
reduc on targets.
As Zimbabwe moves forward, there is an unwavering commitment to buildingon these achievements, learning from the challenges encountered, andreﬁning strategies for con nuous improvement. The na on’s successful NDC
implementa on serves as a beacon of hope, illustra ng that with the rightmix of policies, stakeholder engagement, ins tu onal support, and innova ve
ﬁnancing, signiﬁcant progress can be made in the global ﬁght against climatechange. By sharing these best prac ces and lessons learned, Zimbabwe
contributes to collec ve knowledge and inspires global eﬀorts to create asustainable and resilient future for all.
4.3 Challenges and Opportuni es for NDC Implementa on
Zimbabwe encounters several signiﬁcant challenges in implemen ng its
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs) towards climate ac on. Foremost
among these challenges is the limited access to suﬃcient climate ﬁnance. The
country faces constraints in mobilizing the ﬁnancial resources necessary to
execute essen al climate projects outlined in its NDCs. This ﬁnancial shor all
inhibits Zimbabwe’s ability to eﬀec vely address climate change impacts andpursue sustainable development pathways.

Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

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Technical and ins tu onal capacity gaps present another formidable hurdle.
Key ins tu ons responsible for climate governance and implementa on lackthe necessary exper se and trained personnel. This deﬁcit undermines theplanning, execu on, and monitoring of climate ac ons, hindering progress
towards achieving NDC targets.
Moreover, Zimbabwe grapples with data and informa on gaps crucial for
informed decision-making. The absence of accurate, up-to-date data on
greenhouse gas emissions and climate impacts limits the country’s ability toformulate targeted policies and interven ons. This hampers the precision andeﬀec veness of Zimbabwe’s climate strategies under the NDC framework.
Policy and regulatory frameworks also pose challenges. The alignment of na onal
policies with climate goals remains incomplete, complica ng the coherence andintegra on of climate considera ons across various sectors such as agriculture,energy, and transport. This discrepancy impedes coordinated eﬀorts towards
achieving holis c climate resilience and mi ga on.
Public awareness and engagement in climate ac ons cons tute another areaof concern. There is a need to enhance public understanding and par cipa onin na onal climate ini a ves to garner broader support and commitment tosustainable prac ces and policies.
Inadequate climate-resilient infrastructure, par cularly in rural areas where asigniﬁcant propor on of Zimbabwe’s popula on resides further complicates
adapta on eﬀorts. The lack of infrastructure capable of withstanding climate
impacts undermines the country’s resilience and ability to implement climate
adapta on measures eﬀec vely.
Amidst these challenges, Zimbabwe has several opportuni es to strengthen
its NDC implementa on and enhance climate resilience. Exploring innova ve
ﬁnancing mechanisms such as green bonds and climate funds presents viable
avenues for mobilizing addi onal resources. These ﬁnancial instruments
can a ract private sector investment and interna onal support, augmen ng
Zimbabwe’s capacity to ﬁnance and execute climate projects outlined in its
NDCs. Such opportuni es include:-Inves ng in capacity-building ini a ves: By enhancing the skills and exper seof government oﬃcials, technical experts, and local communi es in climate
10 Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

resilience and sustainable prac ces, Zimbabwe can bolster its capacity to
implement and monitor NDC-related ac vi es eﬀec vely.
-Interna onal collabora on oﬀers another promising avenue: Strengthening
partnerships with interna onal organiza ons, donor agencies, and regional
bodies can provide Zimbabwe with technical assistance, knowledge sharing, andﬁnancial support. These partnerships can facilitate the transfer of technology
and best prac ces, accelera ng progress towards achieving climate goals.
-Promo ng the adop on of green technologies and renewable energy solu ons
represents a tangible opportunity for reducing emissions and enhancing
climate resilience: By incen vizing private sector investment in climate-smart
technologies and projects, Zimbabwe can leverage addi onal resources andexper se to advance its climate agenda.
-Sustainable natural resource management prac ces, including forestry andwater resource management, present opportuni es for integra ng climate
considera ons into broader development strategies. These prac ces cancontribute to both mi ga on eﬀorts and adapta on strategies, enhancing
Zimbabwe’s resilience to climate impacts.
-Empowering local communi es through decentralized governance andcommunity-led ini a ves can foster resilience at the grassroots level: By
engaging communi es in the planning and implementa on of climate adapta on
measures tailored to local contexts, Zimbabwe can enhance the eﬀec venessand sustainability of its climate ac ons.

Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng 11
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

5. Conclusion
Zimbabwe’s successful implementa on of its (NDCs) is cri cal for comba ng
climate change and fostering sustainable development. The na on faces
signiﬁcant challenges such as ﬁnancial constraints, capacity limita ons, anddata gaps, which impede progress. However, there are substan al opportuni es
to enhance NDC implementa on through innova ve ﬁnancing mechanisms
like green bonds and public-private partnerships, which can mobilize thenecessary resources. Addi onally, inves ng in capacity-building ini a ves
will equip stakeholders with the skills and exper se needed for eﬀec ve
climate ac on. Strengthening interna onal collabora ons with organiza ons
and donor agencies can provide technical assistance and ﬁnancial support,
further bolstering Zimbabwe’s climate capabili es. Engaging all stakeholders—
government agencies, the private sector, civil society, and interna onal
partners—in a coordinated eﬀort ensures a holis c and inclusive approach,leveraging diverse exper se and resources to maximize the eﬀec veness andsustainability of climate ini a ves.

12 Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

6. Policy Recommenda ons
From the study, the following policy recommenda ons are proﬀered:
Recommenda on 1: Explore innova ve ﬁnancing mechanisms such as green
bonds and public-private partnerships to mobilize resources eﬀec vely for
implementa on of Zimbabwe’s NDCs: Green bonds have proven successful
in a rac ng climate-focused investors by earmarking funds speciﬁcally forrenewable energy, sustainable infrastructure, and climate adapta on projects.
Public-private partnerships, on the other hand, can leverage private sector
exper se and funding to accelerate the implementa on of climate ini a ves,
sharing risks and costs with government en es. These mechanisms not only
diversify funding sources but also enhance the sustainability and scale of climate
projects.
Recommenda on 2: Invest signiﬁcantly in training and capacity-building
ini a ves to equip stakeholders with the skills and exper se necessaryfor eﬀec ve climate ac on: Comprehensive training programs are crucial
for empowering local stakeholders with knowledge in renewable energy
technologies, climate-resilient agriculture prac ces, and sustainable urban
planning. These ini a ves enhance Zimbabwe’s ability to develop andimplement tailored climate adapta on and mi ga on strategies. By building
local capaci es, Zimbabwe can foster innova on, improve project management,
and ensure long-term sustainability in its climate ini a ves.
Recommenda on 3: Adopt a coordinated approach involving government
agencies, civil society, the private sector, and interna onal partners tocomprehensively achieve its NDC targets: Engaging diverse stakeholders
fosters inclusive decision-making processes and promotes ownership of climate
ini a ves. This collabora ve approach aligns policy frameworks, mobilizes
resources, and encourages innova ve solu ons. It enhances the eﬀec venessand sustainability of climate ac ons while improving accountability andtransparency. Zimbabwe can leverage the strengths and resources ofdiﬀerent sectors to implement integrated climate strategies and meet its NDC
commitments eﬀec vely.

Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng 13
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

Recommenda on 4: Improve data collec on and management systems toprovide accurate and mely informa on necessary for planning and monitoringclimate ac ons eﬀec vely: Enhanced data systems enable evidence-based
decision-making, assess progress towards NDC targets, and iden fy emerging
climate risks. By inves ng in robust data collec on and analysis, Zimbabwe canenhance transparency, accountability, and adap ve management strategies.
Reliable data facilitates informed policy adjustments, op mizes resource
alloca on, and strengthens the country’s capacity to measure and report on
climate impacts accurately.
Recommenda on 5: Strengthen partnerships with interna onal organiza ons
and donor agencies to access technical exper se and ﬁnancial resources
cri cal for successful NDC implementa on: Collabora ng with interna onal
partners provides access to best prac ces, technology transfer, and funding
opportuni es for climate projects. Strategic partnerships enhance Zimbabwe’s
capacity for innova on, align policies with global standards, and build resilience
to climate change. Interna onal support also fosters knowledge exchange,
capacity development, and creates a suppor ve global environment forachieving sustainable development goals.

14 Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

References
Chikodzi, D., & Mutasa, D. (2016). Climate change mi ga on and adapta on in
Zimbabwe: Challenges and opportuni es. Climate Policy, 16(3), 297-310.
Government of Zimbabwe. (2020). Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs).
Harare: Government of Zimbabwe.
IPCC. (2021). Climate Change 2021: The Physical Science Basis. Contribu on ofWorking Group I to the Sixth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental
Panel on Climate Change. Cambridge University Press.
Kangai, B. (2011). Resource mobiliza on for climate ac on in Zimbabwe. Journalof Climate Finance, 3(2), 101-115.
Mugabe, P., Ndlovu, S., & Moyo, T. (2019). Enhancing stakeholder engagement inclimate change policy implementa on in Zimbabwe. Journal of Environmental
Management, 231, 1023-1032.
Mutasa, D., & Chikodzi, D. (2021). Aligning climate change policies with na onal
development plans: The case of Zimbabwe. Development Policy Review, 39(4),527-545.

Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng 15
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

ATPS TechnoPolicy Briefs Series• Unlocking Zambia’s Climate Poten al: Enhancing Stakeholder Roles in the
Implementa on of Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs) (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 82)• Empowering Local Communi es and Enhancing Public Awareness for
Sustainable NDCs Implementa on in Namibia (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 81)• Empowering Stakeholders for Inclusive and Sustainable Na onally Determined
Contribu ons (NDCs) Implementa on in Botswana (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief
No. 80)• Uni ng for a Sustainable Future: Boos ng Stakeholder Engagement in Sierra
Leone’s Climate Goals (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 79)• Stakeholder Par cipa on in the Implementa on of Nigeria’s Na onally
Determined Contribu ons (NDCs): Best prac ces, challenges and opportuni es(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 78)• Stakeholder Par cipa on in Ghana’s Na onally Determined Contribu ons(NDCs) Implementa on: Challenging issues and opportuni es (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 77)• Stakeholder Par cipa on in the Implementa on of Na onally Determined
Contribu ons (NDCs) in Côte d’Ivoire (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 76)• Collabora ve Climate Ac on for Sustainable Development: The case of NDCs
Implementa on in Uganda (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 75)• Advancing Tanzania’s Na onally Determined Contribu on (NDCs) Goals
Through Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 74)• Enhancing Stakeholder Par cipa on in the Implementa on of the Na onally
Determined Contribu ons (NDCs) in Ethiopia (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 73)• Paving the Way for Climate Ac on: Kenya’s Journey towards Implemen ng the
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs) (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 72)• Quelle Est La Place De La Science, De La Technologie Et De L’innova on Dans
L’emploi Des Jeunes Au Sénégal ? (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 71)• Using Science, Technology, and Innova on to Enhance Skills Development, Job
Crea on, and Entrepreneurship in Zimbabwe (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 70)• Fostering the future and livelihood of young people in Uganda through Science,
Technology, and Innova on (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 69)• What is the place of Science, Technology, and Innova on in Youth Employment
in Senegal? (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 68)• Understanding Rwanda’s Science, Technology, and Innova on Landscape in
Youth Employment Crea on (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 67)• Leveraging Science, Technology, and Innova on for Enhanced Youth
Employment in Nigeria (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 66)
16 Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

• Unlocking the Poten al of Educa on and Skills for Suppor ng Youth
Employment in Kenya (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 65)• Harnessing Science and Technological Innova on for Youth Employment andSkill Acquisi on in Ghana (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 64)• Is Ethiopia’s Science, Technology, and Innova on Policy Landscape Eﬀec velyCrea ng Jobs and Fostering Skills for the Youth? (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No.
63)• University-Led Ecosystems for Sustained Innova on and Entrepreneurship
Development in Kenya (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 62)• Eco-innova on Policies for Sustainable Development in Africa (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 61)• Ins tu onal Landscape for Eco-innova on Development in Africa (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 60)• Policy and Ins tu onal Framework for Ecological Organic Agriculture in Benin(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 59)• Ins tu onal Framework for Ecological Organic Agriculture in Kenya (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 58)• Policy and Ins tu onal Framework for Ecological Organic Agriculture in Senegal(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 57)• Advancing Ecological Organic Agriculture in Nigeria (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 56)• Policy and Ins tu onal Framework for Ecological Organic Agriculture in Rwanda(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 55)• Bridging Climate Informa on Gaps to Strengthen Capaci es for Climate Informed
Decision (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 54)• Embracing Open Contrac ng in Africa (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 53)• The Digital Revolu on, Open Science, and Innova on for Open Science Developmentin Sub-Saharan Africa (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 52)• Nouvelles approaches de ﬁ nancement de la recherché et de L’innova on en Afrique(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 51)• New Approaches for Funding Research and Innova on in Africa (ATPS TechnoPolicy
Brief No. 50)• Towards Eﬀec ve Public-Private Partnerships in Research and Innova on: A
Perspec ve for African Science Gran ng Councils (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 49)• Innova ve Prac ces and Policies for Promo ng Biodiversity Informa cs in SubSaharan Africa (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 48)• Improving the Relevance of University Training to Labour Market Demands in Africa(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 47)• Developing Policies for Biodiversity Informa cs in sub-Saharan Africa (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 46)• ICTs role in Agricultural Development: Prospects of Land Poten al Knowledge System(LandPKS) (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 45)
Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng 17
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)• Mainstreaming Gender in the Na onal Science, Technology and Innova on (STI)
Policy of Kenya (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 44)• Social Innova on: An Untapped Resource for Inclusive Green Growth (ATPSTechnoPolicy Brief No. 43)• Policy Axes that Can Uphold Agricultural Innova ons for Climate Change Adapta on
and Food Security in Central Africa: Case of Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea and Central
African Republic (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 42)• Frameworks for Intellectual Property Protec on of Tradi onal Knowledge in Tanzania(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 41)• Assessment of Possible Intellectual Property Protec on Op ons of Tradi onal
Knowledge System in Ethiopia (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 40)• Towards inﬂuencing Na onal Legisla on, Policies, Strategies and Programmes forappropriate Protec on and Beneﬁt-Sharing of Tradi onal Knowledge (TK) with andby Tradi onal Herbalists in Uganda. (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 39)• Tradi onal Healers and their Provision of Mental Health Services in Cosmopolitan
Informal Se lements in Nairobi, Kenya. (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 38)• Policy Implica ons for Intellectual Property Systems for Tradi onal Healers in
Lesotho. (ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 37)• Incidence of Indigenous and Innova ve Climate Change Adapta on Prac ces for
Smallholder Framers’ Livelihood Security in Chikhwawa District, Southern Malawi.
(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 36)• Machobane Farming System and its Relevance to Climate Change Policy in Lesotho.
(ATPS TechnoPolicy Brief No. 35)

18 Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
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Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng 19
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)

20 Enhancing Climate Ac on in Zimbabwe: Implemen ng
Na onally Determined Contribu ons (NDCs)HNO

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