CUZ

On September 23, 2024, the Catholic University of Zimbabwe hosted a transformative event as part of the One Home Journey: Earth Week Zimbabwe (23rd of September – 29th of September). This initiative, in collaboration with Integral Kumusha, Home for Humanity, and Great Zimbabwe University, brought together students, faculty, and key stakeholders to reflect on the pressing need for sustainability at all levels of society. Earth Week 2024 began with the official opening session on September 23rd at the Catholic University of Zimbabwe. The second session will take place from September 24th to 27th at Integral Kumusha in Buhera, followed by the third and final session on September 28th and 29th at Great Zimbabwe University in Masvingo.

As Zimbabwe faces growing environmental challenges, this event highlighted the importance of collective action to promote sustainable development, environmental stewardship, and community health.

Key Highlights from Earth Week Launch, 23 September 2024

1. Practicing Sustainability at Every Level

The event underscored the critical need for sustainable practices from households to communities and the national level. Participants discussed how small-scale, sustainable initiatives, such as family gardening and organic composting, can play a crucial role in combating food insecurity and unemployment. When adopted widely, these simple actions contribute to healthier communities and a stronger local economy.

2. The Role of Social Cohesion and Education

Social cohesion emerged as a vital factor in addressing communal challenges. The event promoted Education 5.0, a model that emphasizes innovation and prepares students to meet future demands, especially in relation to sustainability. By fostering unity within families and communities, we can take more effective steps toward sustainable development.

3. Health and Well-Being for a Sustainable Future

Participants were encouraged to adopt healthier lifestyles, focusing on the consumption of traditional, nature-sourced foods. The event also emphasized personal reflection on our roles as individuals in safeguarding the environment. A healthy society starts with conscious decisions about both our diet and our engagement with nature.

4. Empowering Women and Environmental Stewardship

Women’s empowerment was identified as a key factor in poverty alleviation and sustainable development. The discussions highlighted the importance of green energy and responsible consumption, urging participants to embrace their roles as stewards of the Earth. By promoting environmental responsibility, we can create long-term solutions for Zimbabwe’s future.

5. Planning for a Climate-Resilient Future

As part of Earth Week discussions, participants envisioned a future where humanity coexists in harmony with nature over the next seven years. The real impacts of climate change—including El Niño-induced droughts and floods—were a focal point. It became clear that if immediate action is not taken, nature will respond with increasing severity. The event urged participants to recognize climate change as a pressing concern that requires urgent attention.

6. Indigenous Knowledge and Sustainable Community Development

The value of Indigenous knowledge systems was highlighted as essential in addressing environmental crises and promoting sustainable development. The discussions recognized the importance of building resilient rural communities, especially for retirees who return to their homesteads. Strengthening rural communities is vital to ensuring sustainability for all generations.

7. Collective Action for Environmental Protection

A key takeaway from the event was the significance of collective action. Participants, including students and lecturers, engaged in a symbolic tree-planting activity, reflecting the belief that “a tree today is a forest tomorrow.” This initiative underscored the shared responsibility of all stakeholders to protect and nurture Zimbabwe’s natural environment.

8. Harnessing the Power of Social Media for Change

Young people were encouraged to utilize social media as a platform to spread knowledge about environmental sustainability. The event called on Zimbabwe’s youth to take an active role as agents of change in their communities, using digital platforms to raise awareness and inspire action.

Conclusion: A Call for Sustainability and Collective Action

The Earth Week event at the Catholic University of Zimbabwe served as a powerful reminder that sustainability starts with individual and community-level actions. From practicing sustainable habits at home to empowering communities through education and unity, every step contributes to a healthier, more resilient future for Zimbabwe.

By acting today, we can protect tomorrow. Let’s work together to create a sustainable Zimbabwe—one action at a time.

Written by Wadzanayi Nyakabau