The 2023 Zimbabwe harmonised elections proved to be a digital battleground, with the ruling party and opposition members waging war on X (Twitter). Their campaigns were characterised by misinformation, toxicity, muck-throwing, censorship and cyberbullying.

Four years after Cyclone Idai devastated this mountainous district, a shadow still hangs heavy. The Mutare High Court’s recent declaration of 279 missing persons as dead brings closure for some, but for many, the wounds remain raw.

Journalists Must Be Careful Not to Amplify Hate Speech

Journalists have a significant responsibility to report accurately and ethically, especially in the context of hate speech. At a post-election conference in Kariba, speakers emphasized the importance of avoiding the amplification of hate speech through responsible reporting. This includes careful story selection, providing context, avoiding sensationalism, and minimizing the platform given to hate speech perpetrators. Ethical reporting standards were highlighted by UNESCO representative Al Min Yusuph and ZOCC Chairman Toneo Rutsito, who stressed the media's role in shaping national narratives.

Zimbabwe has relocated thousands of wild animals to protect them from climate change

Zimbabwe has undertaken a significant wildlife relocation project, moving over 2,800 animals to new habitats to protect them from the effects of climate change. The initiative, part of Project Rewild Zambezi, aims to restore wildlife populations in the Zambezi River valley, which have been depleted by poaching and habitat destruction. The project is funded by the World Wildlife Fund and other conservation groups, and involves relocating animals from the Save Valley Conservancy to northern conservancies like Sapi, Matusadonha, and Chizarira. The Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority is spearheading the effort, which also includes measures to improve habitat quality and provide better protection for wildlife. The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable ecosystem that supports a diverse range of species, thereby conserving tourism resources and mitigating human-wildlife conflict.

How UNITAR is empowering young Zimbabwean women to embrace sustainable practices and thrive in the digital economy

UNITAR’s Developing Green Livelihoods for Women and Youth in Africa program, funded by Japan, is empowering young Zimbabweans to adopt sustainable practices and thrive in the digital economy. A mid-programme event showcased participants' progress and featured key stakeholders, including Japanese Ambassador Shinichi Yamanaka and various Zimbabwean government ministries. The program, which includes e-modules, virtual boot camps, and community-building phases, aims to equip participants with entrepreneurial and digital skills. The initiative underscores the importance of collaboration and the strategic investment in women and youth for a sustainable future.