GRRA declares war on climate change
For the first time ever in the city, Gweru Residents and Ratepayers Association (GRRA) has taken the
initiative to plant more than 100 000 trees by 2030 as part of its efforts to fight climate change with the help of Gweru City Council.
The effects of climate change have been felt globally as well as locally evidenced by reduced rainfall and
shortening of rainy seasons, unpredictable wind movements resulting in ‘cyclones’, changes in seasonal
temperature regimes (very hot summers and very cold winters), marked delays in onset of rainy seasons, disappearance of wetlands and declining water reservoirs.
Researchers estimated that by restoring forests to their maximum potential, we could cut down atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) by 25 percent a move that would take us back to levels not seen in over a century.
This reflects that, not only is reforestation the most important mitigation strategy, but a caution like any
other climate change solution, since its also part of a larger portfolio of strategies such as responsible consumption and recycling, sustainable agriculture and forest management, producing clean energy etc.
However, residents have welcomed the new development with open arms stating the initiative as critical
towards climate change mitigation.
Priscilla Mponda a resident from Ward 4 said the program will mitigate climate change in the country and at a global level.
“Recent patterns indicate that, deforestation is on the rise. We are already fighting back. Our organisation has begun implementing plans for environmentally based initiatives. There is need to make sure that, the next generation is environmentally conscious and ready to make an impact in preserving and protecting our forests”.
“We need trees everywhere in our city to ensure that, we create enough clean air for the people and animals. We are are the custodians of all living creatures since God gave us that authority, therefore we muist use the land responsibly.
She said as residents they will support GRRA as well as city council in their campaign to curb climate
change.
(GRRA) Executive Director, Cornilia Selipiwe said, “Recent patterns indicate that, deforestation is
on the rise. We are already fighting back. Our organisation has begun implementing plans for environmentally based initiatives. There is need to make sure that, the next generation is environmentally conscious and ready to make an impact in preserving and protecting our forests,” he said.
Selipiwe added that, the residents tree planting program will create a sense of unity, responsibility and
trust, therefore local residents need to support the initiative for it, to be a success.
“Our residents tree planting program aims to encourage the participation of residents, families in community tree planting events across the City. The program also helps foster a sense of community pride
and ownership of streetscapes, while spreading the word about the importance of planting trees.
“We heavily rely on the support of local residents and volunteers,” he said.
Chairman of Environment, Town planning and Roads, Cllr Trust Chineni at the same occasion said
councils are yet to declare a climate emergency, since they are already fighting other social evils in the
country.
He added that, councils need to take action to reduce their own carbon emissions by working with partners and local communities to tackle the impact of climate change on their local area.
“We need to declare a state of emergency fast and quickly before the effects of climate change catch up
with us. We applaud GRRA for their mantra “planting thousands of tree in Gweru by 2030” as a move to mitigate climate change,” he said.