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Climate and Health Africa Conference set to kick off in Harare

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By Lastword Musekiwa The first edition of the Climate and Health Africa Conference (CHAC 2024) is slated to begin tomorrow in Harare, bringing together policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders from across the continent. Organized by the Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife and the Ministry of Health and Childcare the inaugural conference aims to find solutions to the devastating health impacts of climate change in Africa. At least 40 policymakers from over 30 African countries, mainly from Health and Environment ministries, will be in attendance. “The CHAC 2024 will incorporate cutting-edge research evidence into understanding climate-health mechanisms, the health impacts, effective adaptation and mitigation intervention strategies, equitable climate research, and discuss how to effectively translate research into policy,” said organizers. The conference seeks to tackle the urgent need to address the detrimental health impacts of climate change on health and wellbeing in Africa, where the burden of climate-sensitive diseases is disproportionately high, and adaptive capacities are limited. Key outcomes of CHAC 2024 will include: – Scientific publications – A comprehensive African Health and Climate Declaration – Action plan blueprints for implementation – Announcement of new partnerships and funding commitments The conference will also witness the meeting of The Climate and Health Africa Network for Collaboration and Engagement (CHANCE), aimed at promoting networking, research, learning, policy development, and financing related to climate change and health in Africa. CHANCE facilitates stakeholder interactions, knowledge exchange, information sharing, collaboration on climate and health research, dissemination of best practices through case studies (including mitigation and adaptation measures), advocacy coordination, evidence-based policy development for Africa, and provision of technical assistance to enhance access to climate financing. The CHAC 2024 Scientific Program Committee is chaired by Dr Fortunate Machingura, a social anthropologist focused on climate health and policy and lecturer at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. Additionally, she guides the Climate, Environment, and Health Department at CeSHHAR Zimbabwe. Some of the Scientific Program Committee members include Stanley Luchters, Executive Director (CeSHHAR) Zimbabwe, and Professor in Population Health and Environment at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM);  Modi Mwatsama, Head Capacity & Field Development Climate & Health at the Wellcome Trust; Henry Mwandumba, Director Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Research Programme in Blantyre, Malawi and Professor of Immunology and Infectious Diseases at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, UK.

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Zimbabwe businesses defy monetary authorities, refuse local currency

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By Online Desk The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) has raised concern over businesses refusing to accept local currency the Zimbabwe Gold (Zig) as payment for goods and services, despite monetary authorities’ regulations. In an interview with Zimpapers Radio News, CCZ Chief Executive Officer Commissioner Rosemary Mpofu warned that such actions are illegal it undermine the country’s economic stability. Following a recent adjustment of the local currency exchange rate to the United States Dollar from 1:13.60 to 1:24.90, some businesses have been refusing transactions in local currency, opting for higher rates to force consumers to use foreign currency Commissioner Mpofu said the CCZ will take action against businesses flouting monetary regulations, urging consumers to report any incidents. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining economic stability, urging businesses to comply with regulations.

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Zimbabwe tightens Mpox surveillance

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  By Online Desk Health and Child Care Minister Dr. Douglas Mombeshora has announced that Zimbabwe will intensify its Mpox surveillance efforts following the successful containment of two reported cases last Sunday. In an interview with Zimpapers Radio News, Dr. Mombeshora said authorities have ramped up monitoring and screening systems at the country’s ports of entry to prevent further transmission.

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Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana sign multi-billion dollar port deal

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  By Online Desk  President Emmerson Mnangagwa and his two counterparts, Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi and Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi will today preside over the signing of the tripartite agreement on the Techobanine deep water Port in Maputo. The project is budgeted at US$6,5 billion for the construction of the deep-water port in Matutuine district, and a 1 700km railway line linking Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Botswana. Its implementation has been under discussion since around 2011, with stalling having been attributed to lack of funding. Zimbabwean Ambassador to Mozambique Victor Matemadanda said the three leaders will put pen to paper while also discussing the way forward. Ambassador Matemadanda said following tomorrow’s signing and discussions, progress would start on the implementation of the project. Discussions for the railway line and electricity projects are already in progress

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Government releases 154 million ZiG towards vulnerable persons in urban areas.

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By Online Desk Treasury says it has released 154 million ZiG to the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare for disbursements towards vulnerable persons in urban areas. The money will be available for withdrawal in two weeks’ time, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare Simon Masanga said yesterday. Currently Government is finalising the registration of vulnerable urban dwellers who have not been spared by the devastating effects of the El Nino induced drought. Apart from availing cash to vulnerable families, the Government has also kickstarted the food-for-work programme countrywide—and local authorities will be engaged to spotlight works that need to be carried out at a community level. Mr Masanga said the elderly and child-headed families are exempt from the public works programme, adding that they will instead receive money or grain for free. In a recent interview Minister July Moyo indicated that there is enough food on the ground and people should not panic, adding that the private sector is also importing cereals.

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National Health Insurance Bill to be tabled before Parliament

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  Health and Child Care Minister Dr Douglas Mombeshora says the National Health Insurance Bill will be tabled before Parliament soon as the Government moves to ensure universal access to basic health services. He said this during question time in the National Assembly yesterday while responding to questions from legislators on what the Government was doing to improve maternal healthcare. Dr Mombeshora said the aim of the Government is to ensure that every Zimbabwe has access to basic healthcare at public institutions. About 10 percent of Zimbabweans have health insurance cover, according to Global Press Journal, leaving the majority exposed to cash expenditure to access healthcare services. On the issue of maternal health, Dr Mombeshora said the Government has embarked on various initiatives to ensure the safety of pregnant women. Government is also buying equipment for women who give birth through Caesarean Section, targeting district hospitals that serve rural communities. Recently, 10 anaesthetic machines were bought for such institutions.

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I will not extend my term: ED

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Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has once again dismissed speculation that he will seek a third term in office, reaffirming his commitment to the country’s constitutional term limits. Speaking at the commissioning of the Mutare Teachers College’s fruit juice and water processing plant, President Mnangagwa emphasized that he will step down after his current term and make way for new leadership. “I am serving my last term, and after that, I will retire and rest,” he said, citing the party and national constitutions’ two-term limits. This is the third time President Mnangagwa has addressed speculation about a potential third term, reiterating his dedication to upholding the country’s democratic principles and promoting unity among Zimbabweans.

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ZITF 2024 prioritises carbon emission reduction

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By Online Desk Organisers of the annual Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) say this year’s event will have some changes year, including higher parking charges and exclusive shuttle services, In a bid to foster sustainability and encourage healthier mobility options. These initiatives are aimed at discouraging delegates from using their cars within the exhibition premises and to promote walking. In an interview Industry and Commerce Permanent Secretary Dr. Thomas Wushe said the goal is to ease parking congestion and to significantly decrease the venue’s carbon emissions. “By urging participants to use shuttle services from surrounding hotels, we address parking strains and cut down on pollution. We are encouraging attendees to experience the exhibition on foot which will enhance their visit,” said Dr. Wushe. Meanwhile ZITF board chairperson Busisa Moyo highlighted the importance of this new development. “Zimbabwe’s vibrant innovation sector has blossomed thanks to our national initiatives, aligning with our aspirations toward equitable development and prosperity,” noted Moyo. Set to take place from Tuesday next week, at the ZITF Exhibition Centre in Bulawayo, the 64th ZITF edition will captivate attendees under the theme, “Innovation the Catalyst to Industrialisation and Trade.” Kenyan President Dr William Ruto will officially open the ZITF where over 570 exhibitors have signed up, with 65 participating for the first time, and occupying over 97 percent of the available exhibition space. The fair will feature international participants from 27 countries, including the United States, China, Germany, Belarus, Russia and the United Kingdom. In addition to the trade fair, Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga will host the opening of the ZITF Welcome Cocktail and the ZITF International Business Conference on April 24. The event series will also include the ZITF Charity Golf Challenge, the ZITF Diplomats Forum, and the Connect Africa Symposium, bringing a vibrant array of activities to Bulawayo.

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Zimbabwe part of inaugural UN’s Sustainability Week

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By Lastword Musekiwa Zimbabwe is taking part in the first-ever Sustainability Week, at United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA, convened by the President of the General Assembly for its seventy-eighth session Dennis Francis. The Sustainability Week features a series of back-to-back events consisting of thematic debates aimed at ensuring high-level attendance and progress related to ‘Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly’ (Resolution 77/335), culminating into the Summit of the Future. The event presented a platform for Zimbabwe to share experiences with other member states and showcase its contribution towards the development of a resilient and sustainable tourism industry in the country. Speaking at the forum, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi reinforced the critical role of sustainable tourism in economic development and its contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Minister Rwodzi upadated delegates on various initiatives by Zimbabwe to develop and promote sustainable tourism practices that benefit the economy. Meanwhile Minister Rwodzi has held sideline meetings with Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno. Zimbabwe and Indonesia share excellent relations and are keen to deepen cooperation in the tourism industry. During the meeting the Ministers underscored a need to accelerate joint efforts on cultural exchange programs, capacity building, and eco-tourism programs, among other collaborations. Minister Uno hailed the role played by Minister Rwodzi in shaping the Zimbabwe tourism industry. Minister Rwodzwi also met the Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Tourism Chester Cooper and exchanged views on various issues regarding bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries. Zimbabwe is keen on collaborating with Bahamas on best practices for the tourism marketing segments and strategies as the Bahamas economy is driven by tourism industry contributing 65% to the Country’s GDP. The Bahamas is also keen on working with Zimbabwe on joint marketing, promotion campaigns, capacity building, among other initiatives. The two Minister agreed to draft a memorandum of understanding on cooperation which will be expeditiously enforced by the two parties in the shortest time.

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Let’s all celebrate Independence- Muswere

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By Online Desk Zimbabweans have been called upon to participate in the country’s 44th Independence Day anniversary celebrations to be held in Murambinda, Manicaland Province today. Over 70 000 people are expected to converge at Murambinda B High School for the commemorations. Zimbabweans from all walks of life, including the business community, members of opposition political parties, traditional as well as religious leaders, have been implored to attend the celebrations. Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, said it was important that Zimbabwe’s independence be celebrated by everyone. “The Government of Zimbabwe led by His Excellency, the President Dr E.D Mnangagwa is inviting all Zimbabweans to the commemoration of our 44th Independence celebrations, which will be held in Murambinda, Buhera, Manicaland Province,” said Dr Muswere yesterday. “The hosting of the main Independence celebrations in Manicaland Province is in line with the devolved hosting of national events, which was introduced by the Second Republic. “Therefore, we are rallying all religious leaders, traditional leaders, business leaders and all political leaders including opposition politicians and progressive civil society groups to be at the forefront of mobilising the people of Zimbabwe to our 44th Independence anniversary celebrations.” Dr Muswere said this year’s commemorations, which are being held under the theme, “Zimbabwe @44: Unity, Peace and Development towards Vision 2030”, were reminiscent of the country’s growth and development trajectory under the Second Republic. The theme dovetails with the Government’s adherence to the perennial values of national Independence which is the cornerstone of democracy,” he said. “This year Uhuru celebrations affirm the strategic governance endeavour of the Second Republic which has accelerated investments, the economic growth, restoration of Zimbabwe’s dignity in the community of nations, constitutionalism and economic empowerment,” he said. Today’s commemorations were preceded by the Children’s Party hosted by President Mnangagwa and the First Lady, Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, yesterday. Dr Muswere added that this year’s Independence celebrations would see an Independence Gala featuring many top artistes being held today at Murambinda Growth Point. The traditional Independence Day Cup will also be held today at Murambinda High School, with Zimbabwe’s two top teams, Highlanders and Dynamos, playing. Works at the main arena that included terraces for the football pitch, the changing rooms, ablution facilities, classroom blocks at Murambinda A and B primary schools and Murambinda B Secondary School and painting of buildings at the three schools, have been completed. Desludging of ablution facilities at the three schools, including the septic tanks at ZRP Murambinda, installation of perimeter fencing at Murambinda B Secondary School and pitching of tents at the main venue, had been finalised by yesterday. Rehabilitation and grading of major roads has also been completed.

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