Zimbabwe’s very own Mr. Washington Zhakata has stepped into the global spotlight with his recent appointment as the Deputy Chairman of the Adaptation Fund under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC), a branch housed within the esteemed World Bank.
In a move that highlights Zimbabwe’s growing influence in global climate action, Mr. Zhakata assumes this pivotal role with immediate effect. The Adaptation Fund, since its inception in 2010, has been a beacon of hope for climate change adaptation and resilience projects, pledging over US$1.2 billion towards these critical initiatives.
What sets the Adaptation Fund apart is its steadfast commitment to grassroots impact, manifesting in more than 176 localized projects that directly benefit vulnerable communities in developing countries worldwide. With an impressive track record of assisting 45 million individuals, the fund stands as a testament to tangible, people-centered climate action.
One of the Fund’s groundbreaking contributions has been the introduction of Direct Access, an innovative approach that empowers countries to access funding and spearhead project development through accredited national implementing entities. This not only streamlines the process but also ensures that projects are rooted in local context and driven by community needs.
Mr. Zhakata’s new position as Deputy Chairman positions him at the forefront of steering the Fund towards greater heights of impact and innovation. His wealth of experience and dedication to environmental sustainability make him a fitting choice to champion climate resilience on the global stage.
As Zimbabwe celebrates this momentous achievement, Mr. Zhakata’s appointment serves as a reminder of the country’s dedication to making a meaningful contribution to the collective efforts of safeguarding our planet for future generations. We look forward to witnessing the positive changes and transformative outcomes that will stem from his leadership within the Adaptation Fund.
