Staff Reporter

Cabinet has approved the Climate Change Management Bill, 2025, signalling a major policy shift aimed at strengthening the country’s response to climate change through a coordinated legal framework.

Speaking during yesterday's post-cabinet briefing, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr. Jenfan Muswere, said that the Bill aligns with Section 73 of the Constitution, which guarantees environmental rights for both present and future generations.

“The Climate Change Management Bill represents a decisive step in mainstreaming climate change across all sectors of our economy. It places emphasis on both adaptation and mitigation efforts, ensuring Zimbabwe is better prepared to manage and respond to the effects of climate change,” Minister Muswere said.

A key objective of the Bill is the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions while simultaneously promoting low-carbon development and facilitating carbon trading.

Minister Muswere said the Bill will introduce mechanisms to support a transition to sustainable energy and development practices.

“To this end, the Bill will establish a Designated National Authority responsible for overseeing carbon trading initiatives. In addition, a National Climate Fund will be created to finance climate change programmes and projects,” he explained.

The Fund will provide targeted support to local adaptation and mitigation initiatives, bridging the gap between policy and implementation.

Dr. Muswere further noted that the Bill seeks to fill gaps in existing climate legislation and create a unified approach to climate governance.

“Currently, climate-related responsibilities are fragmented across different laws and institutions. This Bill brings everything under one coordinated framework, ensuring efficiency and accountability,” he said.

He emphasised that the Bill not only responds to Zimbabwe’s constitutional obligations but also aligns with global climate commitments.

“The comprehensive legal framework provided by this Bill ensures that Zimbabwe can meet its international obligations while safeguarding the environment for future generations,” he added.

The Climate Change Management Bill, once enacted into law, is expected to strengthen institutional capacity, promote investment in green technologies, and improve data management in climate-related sectors.