Locally-led Indigenous nature-based solution for climate change adaptation in Zimbabwe by Mennonite Central Committee

Focusing on the implementation of nature-based solutions (NbS) to enhance climate change adaptation, this project includes agricultural practices such as using drought-resistant seeds, conservation agriculture techniques like minimal tillage and intercropping, and traditional pest control strategies. Watershed management will involve gully reclamation and planting indigenous trees to prevent erosion. The project aims to diversify income through non-timber forest products and leverage Indigenous knowledge systems to guide human-environment interactions. Successful in other Zimbabwean regions, this approach will engage leadership at household, community, ward, and district levels to reduce climate vulnerability.

In the districts of Mwenezi, Binga, and Gwanda in Zimbabwe, efforts are underway to foster low carbon, climate resilient economies that prioritise the needs of vulnerable groups, including women, men, boys, and girls, while simultaneously enhancing biodiversity. This initiative focuses on the increased adoption of indigenous-led, gender-responsive, nature-based solutions for climate change adaptation. These solutions aim to reduce vulnerability and promote biodiversity within terrestrial ecosystems. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on enhancing indigenous-led, nature-positive, conflict-sensitive, and climate resilient livelihood opportunities, particularly for women and girls, through the sustainable use of biodiversity in these targeted districts.

The project is structured around two primary activities: capacity building and the development of resources, knowledge, and tools. Key outputs of the project include the establishment of a Learning and Innovation Hub and a review of natural resource and climate change adaptation policies and by-laws. The project will produce research papers and other data products, alongside providing training in community-managed assisted natural regeneration (ANR). Landscape restoration and rehabilitation will be undertaken to boost biodiversity and climate resilience. The initiative involves coordination with locally-led community structures and the promotion of energy-saving technologies and alternative energy sources. It also implements resource-efficient livestock management techniques and promotes sustainable water collection and utilization.

The project aims to enhance the ability of communities, especially women and girls, to use Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity. It will implement climate change resilient food systems and provide training in conflict resolution and the collective management of shared community natural resources and biodiversity. Additionally, the project promotes and incentivizes innovative alternative livelihood opportunities that reduce pressures on ecosystems and biodiversity.

There is a focus on increasing the awareness and capacity of communities, particularly women, to implement sustainable value chains, market linkages, and business development activities. This includes supporting the marketing of value-added products and facilitating business development, market access, and linkage opportunities. Training in market analysis is also provided. The project seeks to empower women by enhancing their decision-making power and control over household and community resources. The findings of Gender-based Analysis+ are integrated throughout the project’s design, implementation, and management. Community gender forums, groups, and dialogues are facilitated, along with gender-sensitive peacebuilding skills training.