IUCN AFRICAN CONSERVATION FORUM PRE-FORUM STATEMENT: ZELA

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African Solutions for Nature and People: Creating Transformative Responses to the Biodiversity and Climate Crisis in Africa

Africa’s rich biodiversity and ecosystems are invaluable to the global environment, supporting countless species and providing essential services to millions of people. However, the triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, pollution and climate change threaten these natural treasures and the livelihoods dependent on them. To navigate these challenges, it is imperative to embrace innovative, inclusive, and sustainable solutions tailored to Africa’s context.

The Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) is, therefore, honored to be attending this year’s IUCN Africa Conservation Forum (ACF) which is running under the theme: “African Solutions for Nature and People: Creating Transformative Responses to the Biodiversity and Climate Crisis in Africa.”

This theme resonates deeply with ZELA’s mission to promote sustainable development and environmental stewardship across Zimbabwe and Africa, with its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems. This edition of the ACF comes at a time the continent is at the forefront of global nature and biodiversity conservation challenges, a time when combined efforts to jointly develop and implement solutions that are tailored to meet Africa’s specific needs and contexts are paramount.

Thus, ZELA prepares to gather with fellow conservationists, policymakers, and stakeholders with excitement as the urgency of addressing the intertwined challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change becomes critical by the day and the forum represents a pivotal opportunity to collectively discuss and map ways to address these issues. The forum also presents a platform for knowledge exchange and offers invaluable opportunities to gain insights into the latest research, strategies, and technologies in conservation and climate action. ZELA, therefore, looks forward to sharing its experiences and learning from others to create synergies in conservation initiatives.

Represented by a young passionate delegation, ZELA is attending the ACF to share experiences, enhance the team’s skills and capabilities, particularly in areas such as project management, community engagement, and innovative conservation practices. This will empower the organization to implement more effective and efficient projects.

Leveraging the ACF for greater impact

ZELA looks forward to amplifying its advocacy and policy Influence through participating in discussions on policy frameworks and regulatory mechanisms, ensuring that local communities’ needs and perspectives are integrated into decision-making processes.

The forum presents an opportunity to establish strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations, governmental bodies, donors and private sector entities, to pool resources and expertise, scaling successful initiatives and fostering a unified approach to conservation.

ZELA can inspire conservation action by showcasing successful projects and innovative solutions that demonstrate commitment. In the same vein, the forum will also expose the organization to emerging cutting-edge technologies and methodologies in biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation.

ZELA’s Commitment:

  • ZELA is steadfast in the belief that the strength of Africa’s conservation efforts lies in the hands of its people. Thus, the organization will continue empowering local communities through education, capacity building, and promoting equitable resource management which is key to fostering stewardship and ensuring sustainable conservation outcomes.
  • ZELA recognizes the profound impact of climate change on Africa’s ecosystems and commits to continue crafting initiatives that focus on enhancing climate resilience through ecosystem-based adaptation, sustainable land use practices, and advocating for robust climate policies and laws.
  • ZELA values collaboration and commits to working with governments, NGOs, the private sector, and international partners to create synergies that amplify all conservation efforts and drive impactful change that will lead to intra and intergenerational equity towards sustainable utilization of nature’s resources.
  • Based on its belief that effective conservation requires supportive legal and policy frameworks, ZELA will continue to advocate for laws and policies that prioritize biodiversity conservation, environmental justice, and sustainable development.

 ZELAs participation in the upcoming IUCN Africa Conservation Forum is a significant step towards realizing its vision of a thriving, resilient, and sustainable Africa. As such, ZELA reiterates its commitment to harnessing the insights, connections, and opportunities gained from this event to develop transformative solutions that address the biodiversity and climate crisis in Africa. Together, a future where both nature and people prosper is possible!

 

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