Hon. Dr. Honourable Evelyn Ndlovu, Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife of the Republic of Zimbabwe, recently made a significant intervention at the High Level Ministerial Event on Water and Climate Action at COP30 in Belém, Brazil. Representing the Convention on Wetlands COP15 Presidency, Minister Ndlovu emphasized Zimbabwe’s commitment to ambitious climate action, guided by the country’s new National Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0).

Speaking at the event, Minister Ndlovu highlighted Zimbabwe’s key climate priorities, including a 40% per capita reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 and raising ambition for climate resilience through the National Adaptation Plan. She stressed the urgent need for scaled-up, accessible climate finance to implement these plans.

The Minister also drew attention to the unique challenges faced by Landlocked Developing Countries, calling for climate justice and global support. Zimbabwe is ready to play its part, but Minister Ndlovu emphasized that international cooperation is essential for a sustainable and prosperous future for all Zimbabweans.

The COP30 Climate Summit saw the launch of the COP29 Declaration on Water for Climate Action, a first-ever water-focused declaration aiming to ensure a consistent focus on water and its interplay with climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and desertification. This declaration focuses on actions at international, regional, and river basin levels, aligning with Zimbabwe’s priorities.

The event was attended by the Environmental Management Agency and Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, with Wetlands COP15 taking place in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Minister Ndlovu’s statement reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to climate action, seeking global support for a sustainable future.