Zimcodd’s Climate change boot camp yields results in Gokwe

Partinella Ngozo
In a remarkable turn of events, the Zimcodd Climate Change Boot Camp held in Gokwe has produced promising results. The boot camp, aimed at empowering local communities to tackle the pressing issue of climate change, has proven to be a resounding success.
Participants from various backgrounds came together to learn and devise strategies to address climate change challenges in the region. Guided by experts in the field, the attendees engaged in a series of intensive workshops and practical exercises.
The boot camp emphasized the importance of sustainable practices and the need for immediate action to mitigate the effects of climate change. Participants were educated on topics such as Climate change knowledge and skills to combat climate change. They also had the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, including tree planting and waste management initiatives.
“…most people had little or no knowledge of the effects of climate change in the community,” remarked Tendai Masora the Zimcodd Social Economic Justice Activist.
“The training’s main mandate was to train trainers on tree planting, dealing with tree budding and grafting since most people in my area are engaging in deforestation. Our main aim is to cascade information on sustainable agriculture and tree planting to others. Most people in my community had little knowledge of climate change and this even affected their agricultural yields,” she said.
Masora further highlighted that they want to ensure tree planting is their lifetime daily activity. Their target is to establish 156 orchards with security fences across eight wards including schools. They also target grafting and budding 2500 trees per month and the establishment of sixteen more nutritional gardens
One of the notable outcomes of the boot camp was the establishment of community projects that actively combat climate change in Gokwe. These initiatives range from the creation of community gardens to initiatives promoting the establishment of more tree planting initiatives targeting schools. The participants, armed with newfound knowledge and skills, have pledged to take the lead in implementing these projects and inspiring others to follow suit.
“…we are grateful to Zimcodd for this great program. Firstly we lacked information on climate change issues, but through this training, we are now better. Secondly, we are grateful for the tree planting initiatives, and we vow that we will do everything in our power to make sure that we move forward with these tree planting initiatives,” said Rosy Mabasa a beneficial of the boot camp.
The Zimcodd Climate Change Boot Camp has not only equipped individuals with the necessary tools to tackle climate change but has also fostered a strong sense of community and collaboration among attendees. The participants have formed a network of like-minded individuals who will continue to support and learn from each other, ensuring the sustainability and effectiveness of their initiatives.
Various organizations and stakeholders have commended the efforts of the boot camp participants in Gokwe. They have expressed their willingness to provide ongoing support and resources to expand the impact of these community-led projects. The dedication and enthusiasm displayed by the attendees have served as an inspiration for others to join the fight against climate change.
As the effects of climate change continue to intensify, initiatives such as the Zimcodd Climate Change Boot Camp in Gokwe play a crucial role in raising awareness, building capacity, and fostering sustainable practices within communities. The success achieved by the participants serves as a testament to the power of collective action and the potential for positive change when individuals are equipped with the knowledge and tools to address global challenges.