UNDP and FAO Launch Phase 2 of Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund to Support Vulnerable Communities

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), in collaboration with the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office in Zimbabwe, have officially launched Phase 2 of the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF).

This initiative is designed to strengthen the resilience of vulnerable rural communities across Zimbabwe and is supported by key donors including the European Union, the Government of Ireland, and the Government of Zimbabwe.

The ZRBF is a multi-year program that focuses on sustainable natural resource management, improving food and nutrition security, and mitigating the impacts of natural disasters in at-risk communities. The program aims to increase resilience among vulnerable populations who face challenges such as climate change, food insecurity, and environmental degradation.

During the launch event, held at UNDP’s Arundel Office Park, influential remarks were delivered by Dr. Ayodele Odusola, UNDP Zimbabwe Resident Representative, and Dr. Patrice Talla, FAO Resident Representative. H.E. Austin Gormley, the Ambassador of Ireland, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, emphasizing the need for full commitment from all stakeholders to support communities that are particularly vulnerable to climate hazards.

Phase 2 of ZRBF aims to reach over 450,000 people by 2028 across seven rural districts: Binga, Kariba, Mbire, Hurungwe, Mwenezi, Chiredzi, and Beitbridge. With an estimated budget of USD 17.24 million, the program intends to achieve key outcomes, such as improved natural resource management, diversified livelihood options, and enhanced governance in climate and disaster risk management.

The initiative aligns with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and the European Union’s Multi-Annual Indicative Programme for Zimbabwe (2021-2027). The launch concluded with the signing of agreements and a press briefing, reinforcing the commitment of all involved parties to enhancing climate resilience and food security in the country.