BY SAMUEL NJINGA IN MASVINGO.
In a world grappling with the catastrophic effects of climate change, one group has emerged as a driving force behind some of the most innovative and effective solutions: women. Across the globe, women are taking the lead in advocating for environmental justice, promoting sustainable practices, and driving policy change aimed at preserving our planet for future generations.
From grassroots movements to international organisations, the connection between gender equality and environmental action is becoming increasingly clear. Women, who are often disproportionately affected by climate-related disasters, have a unique perspective on environmental issues, and their involvement in decision-making processes has proven to be transformative.
Studies show that women are more likely to be affected by the consequences of climate change, particularly in low-income regions. For instance, women are often the primary food providers in many developing countries and rely heavily on natural resources that are becoming increasingly scarce due to environmental degradation. Moreover, they are more likely to be displaced by extreme weather events such as floods, droughts, and hurricanes.
However, women are not just victims of climate change—they are also at the forefront of the fight against it. Research from the United Nations suggests that when women are included in environmental leadership, policies tend to be more effective and equitable. Communities led by women are more likely to adopt sustainable practices, improve conservation efforts, and invest in renewable energy.
Female leaders are continuously bringing an impact both locally and at global level as far as environmental issues are concerned. In Zimbabwe the Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife is Sithembiso Nyoni. This bears testament that women have a pivotal role to play as far as environmental issues are concerned.
One of the standout examples at global level is Christiana Figueres, the former Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), who was instrumental in brokering the landmark Paris Agreement in 2015. Figueres’ leadership demonstrated the power of inclusive decision-making, bringing together nations to collectively tackle climate change.
Closer to home, grassroots organizations led by women are transforming local communities. The Indigenous Women’s Environmental Defense group in Canada, for example, has been at the forefront of land protection and resource management, drawing on traditional ecological knowledge to preserve biodiversity and fight against industrial encroachment on sacred lands.
Women also play a utility role in policy and innovation. They have become increasingly present in the fields of science, technology, and innovation, developing solutions that address environmental challenges. In Kenya, Wangari Maathai’s Green Belt Movement, founded in the 1970s, continues to inspire environmental action worldwide. By mobilizing women to plant trees and restore ecosystems, Maathai’s work proved that empowering women is key to environmental restoration.
Today, female scientists are spearheading research into sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, and climate-resilient infrastructure. In Sweden, Greta Thunberg has sparked a global youth movement that puts pressure on governments to take stronger action against climate change, demonstrating the critical role of young women in driving environmental advocacy.
Experts agree that achieving gender equity is essential to addressing the climate crisis. Ensuring that women have equal access to resources, education, and leadership opportunities not only empowers them but also strengthens global climate resilience.
“Women are natural stewards of the environment,”said Zimbabwe Minister of Environment, Climate and Wildlife, Sithembiso Nyoni.
“When they have the tools and the platform to lead, they bring about change that is both sustainable and inclusive.”
With the upcoming UN Climate Summit, gender inclusion will be a top priority for delegates, as more countries recognise the vital role that women play in shaping a greener future. In the fight against climate change, one thing is clear: the future of the planet depends on the leadership, innovation, and resilience of women around the world.