Zimbabwean women are bearing the brunt of climate change: ZG

Vongai Masuka

The Zimbabwe Gender Commission has revealed that women are bearing the brunt of climate change in the country following the devastating effects of the El Nino-induced drought, which hit Zimbabwe last year.

Addressing women in Chitungwiza yesterday, ZGC’s Commissioner Margaret M.Mukahanana-Sangarwe said the reliance of women on natural resources for their livelihoods and that of their families make them feel the brunt more than their male counterparts.

“Although men and women are impacted similarly by environment and climate change, women are disproportionately affected as they rely heavily on the environment for household provision and livelihoods.

“Women are often responsible for natural resource management, such as collecting water, firewood, and farming. This makes them more vulnerable to climate-related changes in weather patterns and natural resources,” she added.

Commissioner Mukahanana added that the vulnerabilities of women are exacerbated by limited access to resources, technology, and decision-making power. She called for gender-sensitive policies and programs to address the gender-environment-climate change nexus, acknowledging women’s leadership in environmental conservation and sustainable development.

She praised government efforts in facilitating a conducive environment for gender sensitivity and climate action but urged a shift from policy to practice.

“As Zimbabwe Gender Commission, we acknowledge the tremendous efforts by multi-sectoral stakeholders in implementing various climate action and environmental protection initiatives. We also acknowledge efforts by the government in facilitating a conducive environment towards transforming society to be more gender sensitive,” she said.