By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare — As the countdown to the 15th Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands begins, Zimbabwe is leveraging the upcoming international event to highlight its broader progress in environmental conservation, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
With just days to go before COP15 begins in the renowned resort city of Victoria Falls, government officials have confirmed that preparations are in full swing.
Beyond venue arrangements and marketing campaigns aimed at attracting global stakeholders, Zimbabwe sees this conference as an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable development and regional leadership.
During Wednesday’s parliamentary session, President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s attendance underscored the importance placed on the event. Parliament discussed various national priorities, from environmental conservation to social development, reinforcing the government’s holistic approach to hosting an impactful international gathering.
Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Jenfan Muswere, highlighted ongoing collaborations with regional and international partners to position Zimbabwe as a key player in environmental and tourism sectors, emphasizing the country’s tourism recovery under the National Tourism Recovery Plan.
Meanwhile, efforts to improve healthcare services remain a priority, with Deputy Minister of Health and Child Care, Honourable Sleiman Kwidini, updating legislators on expanding nursing training centers and advancing universal health coverage demonstrating Zimbabwe’s focus on human development alongside environmental commitments.
In infrastructure, Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development, Honourable Felix Mhona, provided updates on the installation of surveillance cameras aimed at improving urban security and public safety, reflecting broader government initiatives to modernize and safeguard vital assets.
Other issues discussed included strategies to address rising human-wildlife conflicts, criteria for inmate releases under Presidential Amnesty, and measures to protect critical electricity infrastructure from vandalism all of which underscore Zimbabwe’s efforts to improve social stability and resilience.
As Zimbabwe prepares to host COP15, the government’s focus extends beyond environmental issues to showcase its comprehensive development agenda underscoring the country’s ambition to emerge as a regional leader in sustainable growth and international cooperation.