• Zimbabwe was the only African country to meet the 10 February deadline

The Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association (ZELA) applauds the Government of Zimbabwe, through the Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife for its timely submission of its enhanced Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC3.0) 2020-2935 Country Statement by 10 February 2025.

For us at ZELA, this milestone underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to global climate action, sustainable development, and the goals of the Paris Agreement. By articulating ambitious targets for reducing emissions, enhancing climate resilience, and fostering green economic growth, Zimbabwe has demonstrated exemplary leadership in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time.

Under the Paris Agreement, countries must submit updated climate action plans (NDCs) every five years. However, following the first Global Stock-take (GST1) at COP28, which revealed that current NDCs would lead to -3°C warming by 2100 (far exceeding the 1.5°C target), nations were mandated to submit more ambitious 10-year NDC3.0 plans by 10 February 2025, including 2035 targets.

Unfortunately, only 13 out of 195 countries that are signatory to the Paris Agreement met this deadline globally. ZELA notes that Zimbabwe was the only African nation to submit its NDC3.0 on time, underscoring its proactive climate commitment amid broader global delays. Zimbabwe’s leadership is commendable. What remains is to finalise the Climate Change Management Bill to ensure implementation of its global commitments and strengthening institutional capacities to implement those commitments. 

ZELA has been actively participating in the development of Nationally Determined Contributions and public consultations on development of the Climate Change Bill for the country, supporting the informed participation of communities through providing education and awareness which are crucial in fostering a global culture that values and protects the environment.

Another impressive development noted in the country statement is that the Government of Zimbabwe has already developed the National Climate Change Adaptation Plan (NAP) to integrate climate change adaptation in development policies, strategies, plans, programmes and activities. This transformative strategy in addressing climate change by taking climate consideration in planning, budgeting, and decision making in all developmental processes is welcome.

NDC3.0, therefore, reflects a forward-thinking vision that integrates climate action with national development priorities, set out in the National Development Strategy which recognizes environmental protection, climate resilience and natural resources management. Zimbabwe’s proactive approach sets a powerful example for nations worldwide, highlighting the critical role of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity in achieving a climate-secure future.

As the international community strives to limit global temperature rise, Zimbabwe’s submission reinforces the urgency of collective action and solidarity. Therefore, ZELA commends the government, civil society, private sector, and all stakeholders involved in crafting this comprehensive strategy. It is hoped that this commitment will inspire accelerated efforts and partnerships to turn these ambitious goals into transformative realities for current and future generations. Without a doubt, and in light of its leadership, Zimbabwe needs the support of the international community and development partners to help it implement its commitments.