Victoria Falls Commemorates World Environment Day with Call to Action Against Plastic Pollution
Written by Staff Reporter on June 12, 2025
VICTORIA FALLS – Victoria Falls hosted a belated World Environment Day commemoration at Chamabondo Primary School, rallying under the global theme #BeatPlasticPollution. The event drew participation from various business entities, including Doves, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), and Hwange Electricity Supply Company, among others. UNICEF, in alignment with the Korean Republic, served as the core funder of the program.
The commemoration commenced with a prestigious tree planting ceremony, where five trees were planted by distinguished dignitaries. The first, a Mandizhe tree, was followed by a Flamboyant tree planted by Comrade Mugoriya, who represented the Minister of State in absentia.
Following the tree planting, dignitaries toured exhibition stands showcasing various environmental initiatives, while the Mosi-oa Tunya School choir serenaded the attendees. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Chaplin, Mr. Mapopota, led a prayer, emphasizing that “Stewardship was given by God to make sure that the environment is kept in an appealing state,” and urged Victoria Falls citizens to be custodians of their environment. The Mosi-oa Tunya choir then led the singing of the National Anthem.
Mr. Mugoriya, delivering a speech on behalf of the Minister of State, echoed a powerful call to action: “Let this be a catalyst for the world to be a plastic-free environment…”. This statement urged Victoria Falls residents to be more mindful of their surroundings.
Mr. Tendai Nyawiri, representing the Recycling Association, highlighted the significant challenges facing the recycling industry, including inadequate infrastructure for waste material recycling and a lack of public awareness. He called upon the government to “increase public awareness, provide incentives for businesses to engage in waste recycling”.
A representative from the Victoria Falls Municipality also stressed the collective responsibility to “ensure that plastic is reduced, reused and recycled!”.
Conclusively, a UNICEF representative underscored the pressing environmental issues of “biodiversity loss, pollution and climate change”. They emphasized the crucial need to “put children at the center of the agenda”, advocating for environmental education for children as future custodians of planet earth.
The event brought together local schools, teachers, community members, dignitaries, and business personnel, fostering a collective commitment to environmental stewardship.
By: Buhle Bhebhe