UN calls on Zim to exercise anticipatory action ahead of El Nino induced drought
By Staff Writer
THE United Nations (UN) has challenged authorities in Zimbabwe to adopt and implement Anticipatory Action in dealing with multiple challenges currently confronting the nation.
Speaking at the occasion to mark the end of the Zimbabwe Idai Recovery Program (ZIRP) recently, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Edward Kallon said the strategy is useful in finding a lasting solution to the country’s problems.
“I would like to also emphasize the criticality of anticipatory action and community resilience in the face of multiple challenges that Zimbabwe is currently confronting.
“These include the looming El Nino-induced drought, natural disasters like cyclones, and disease outbreaks such as cholera that would severely impact the nation, leaving vulnerable communities even more exposed to the devastating effects of these crises,” he said.
He said Anticipatory action, as envisaged within the Sendai Framework, presents a forward-thinking approach to disaster management, encouraging nations to proactively prepare for impending challenges.
Kallon said in Zimbabwe, this approach becomes ever more crucial as the country grapples with looming El Nino induced drought and the ever unpredictability of weather patterns, exacerbated by the effects of climate change.
The UN chief underscored that by utilising early warning systems and investing in preparedness measures, we can minimize the impact of these disasters and save lives.
He said continuous building and community resilience is equally imperative as it is essential that no one is left behind in the planning and implementation of resilience-building strategies.
“This means ensuring that the most marginalized and vulnerable populations, including women, children, the elderly, and those living in remote areas, are actively involved in decision-making processes and have access to the necessary resources and support.
“By adopting a people-centered approach, we can empower communities to better withstand and recover from disasters.
“This can be achieved by implementing livelihood diversification programmes, enhancing access to quality education and healthcare, and promoting sustainable and inclusive economic development. Strengthening social safety nets and establishing robust early warning systems can also contribute to reducing vulnerability and enhancing resilience at the community level,” he said.
He said Collaborative efforts and joint programmes such as what the ZIRP demonstrated should be driven by a shared commitment to leave no one behind, will enable us to pool resources, expertise, and knowledge to develop and implement comprehensive resilience-building strategies.
“As we wind up the Zimbabwe Idai Recovery Programme, the major lesson we draw is that addressing the El Nino-induced drought, natural disasters, and disease outbreaks in Zimbabwe requires a multi-pronged approach,” added Kallon.
