UNDP, FAO and RCO Officially Launch ZRBF Phase 2 to Strengthen Community Resilience
By Desire Tshuma
The United Nations Development Programme, the Food and Agriculture Organization and the United Resident Coordinator’s Office of Zimbabwe today officially launched phase 2 of the Zimbabwe resilience building fund (ZRBF) together with its donors, the European Union and the government of Ireland as a multi-year initiative aimed at building resilience of vulnerable rural communities.
The launch event presentations was opened by Dr Ayodele Odusola who is the UNDP Zimbabwe representative followed by Dr Patrice Talla, FAO resident representative and key development partners. The event showcased testimonies from programme participants and district level stakeholders highlighting the transformative impact of resilience building initiatives on the ground.
Ambassador of Ireland His Excellence Austin Gormley and European Union ambassador His Excellence Jobst von Kirchmann also made remarks on the importance of sustained investment in resilience programming.
“I’m excited to be part of this joint programme and urge all partners and stakeholders to fully commit to its success. The Zimbabwe resilience building fund will directly support ordinary men and women in communities at risk of climate hazards,” said Ambassador Gormley.
Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann spoke about the past and expected impact of the project. “Resilience building must be a joint, long-term effort. By working together and building on past successes, we can create lasting positive change,” added Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann.
Edward Kallon, European Union member and the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Professor Obert Jiri also shared goodwill messages reinforcing the commitment to enhancing climate resilience and food security in Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF) is funded by the European Union (EU) and the government of Ireland with an estimated budget of USD17.24 million. The initiative is jointly implemented by the UNDP, FAO and RCO in collaboration with the government of Zimbabwe, local authorities and other key development partners.
“The Zimbabwe resilience building fund phase 2 represents a pivotal step towards strengthening the resilience of vulnerable communities, enhancing sustainable natural resource management and ensuring food and nutrition security in the face of climate change. By leveraging integrated approaches and fostering inclusive economic growth, we are empowering communities to withstand and recover from shocks while safeguarding their livelihoods. UNDP remains committed to working with partners to build a future where resilience is not just a response but a way of life for Zimbabwe’s rural communities,” said UNDP Representative Dr Ayodele Odusola.
