Chipinge, Chimanimani Step Up Climate Action Through Devolution – Eduzim News

By Claris Madhuku| Voices from Chipinge District and Chimanimani District are growing louder and more united—calling for stronger local action against climate disasters, anchored in the spirit of devolution.

At an Interlocal Authority Dialogue on Climate Financing facilitated by Green Governance, stakeholders pledged to prioritise climate budgeting as a pathway to resilience. Chimanimani Rural District Council committed to increasing its allocation from 2% to 5%, while Chipinge Rural District Council will raise its share from 5% to 8%.

This renewed commitment comes in the shadow of the devastating Cyclone Idai, whose impact still lingers in both districts. From recurring floods to unpredictable weather patterns, communities continue to face climate shocks that demand stronger preparedness and faster response.

According to Blessing Matasva, increasing local budgets is key to shifting from reactive disaster management to proactive resilience—supporting infrastructure rehabilitation, water systems, and climate-smart agriculture.

The dialogue, led by Chipinge RDC Chief Executive Officer Blessing Mamvosha and his counterpart for Chimanimani Nehemiah Devure, also exposed a critical challenge: delays in the disbursement of devolution funds. These delays continue to weaken service delivery, leaving councils overly dependent on external support.

Community organisations such as the Platform for Youth and Community Development echoed the need for locally driven solutions, rooted in community realities.

In a united resolution, both districts committed to improving revenue collection, strengthening the Civil Protection Unit, and institutionalising quarterly joint reviews. This is the voice of the people—clear and determined: devolution must work, and climate resilience must begin at the local level.

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