In a powerful call to action, UNDP Zimbabwe Resident Representative Dr. Ayodele Odusola emphasized the necessity of unity in addressing pressing environmental issues. Speaking at the launch of the Southern Africa First Ladies Forum on Environment—a regional advocacy platform initiated by Zimbabwe's First Lady, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa—Dr. Odusola urged for a coordinated and collaborative response across all sectors to tackle climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.

The launch, which took place on the sidelines of the 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit in Zimbabwe, highlighted the critical role of regional cooperation in confronting environmental challenges. Dr. Odusola addressed representatives from various SADC countries, government agencies, and UN organizations, underscoring the importance of collective action to secure a sustainable future for the region.

"The environmental crises we face today—climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss—demand a unified and strategic response," Dr. Odusola stated. "Business as usual is no longer an option. We must commit to sustainability through comprehensive cooperation at every level."

Dr. Odusola praised the efforts of the First Ladies in championing environmental causes, noting that their leadership was vital in mobilizing communities and governments alike. The timing of the event was especially significant, as at least three nations within the Southern African region had recently declared national disasters due to the severe impacts of the El Niño phenomenon.

First Lady Dr. Mnangagwa echoed these sentiments, highlighting the collective responsibility of safeguarding the environment. "Protecting our environment is a shared duty," she said. "The way we manage waste disposal has profound implications for our planet. It is crucial that we address this issue holistically and share best practices across the region."

During the event, Dr. Odusola shared success stories from Zimbabwe, where collaboration between UNDP, the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, and other partners has yielded positive results. These include a significant reduction in poaching within the Zambezi Valley, the planting of hundreds of thousands of trees, and a decrease in veld fires—all contributing to the country’s transition toward a low-emission, climate-resilient future.

UN Resident Coordinator Edward Kallon also spoke at the event, emphasizing the long-term impact of their efforts. "Our success will be measured by the lives we touch and the sustainable livelihoods we create," Kallon remarked. "Let us leave a legacy of empowerment and responsibility for future generations."

The high-level forum, organized by First Lady Dr. Mnangagwa, was attended by several dignitaries, including Malawian First Lady Mrs. Monica Chakwera, Angola's First Lady Dr. Ana Dias Lourenco, Eswatini’s Queen LaMashwama, and Mrs. Rose Margaret Morel, who represented the First Lady of Seychelles. The event culminated with the First Ladies planting indigenous trees at the GeoPomona Waste Management Centre—a former dumping site now transformed into a recycling and waste management facility. They also toured the facility to observe products created by small-scale enterprises from recycled materials.

This regional initiative marks a significant step forward in fostering environmental stewardship and resilience across Southern Africa, setting a precedent for future collaborative efforts in the fight against climate change.