Zimbabwe’s Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has met with the new executive secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), Ms Tatiana Molcean, in Geneva, Switzerland. The meeting, which took place on Wednesday night, was aimed at strengthening cooperation on road safety and climate change mitigation.
Road safety in Zimbabwe
According to the World Health Organization, Zimbabwe has one of the highest road traffic death rates in the world, with 34.7 deaths per 100,000 population in 2018. Also, the country has been struggling to reduce road accidents, which are mainly caused by human error, poor road conditions, and inadequate enforcement of traffic laws.
Minister Mhona said he discussed with Ms Molcean how Zimbabwe can benefit from the UNECE’s expertise and best practices on road safety, especially in the areas of road infrastructure, vehicle standards, driver training, and data collection. He also expressed interest in joining the UN Road Safety Fund, which supports projects that improve road safety in low- and middle-income countries.
“We are committed to improving road safety in Zimbabwe and saving lives. We appreciate the support and guidance of the UNECE and look forward to working together on this important issue,” Minister Mhona said.
Climate action in Zimbabwe
Another topic of the meeting was climate action, which is a priority for both Zimbabwe and the UNECE. Zimbabwe is one of the most vulnerable countries to the impacts of climate change, such as droughts, floods, and cyclones. The country has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 33% by 2030, compared to the business-as-usual scenario.
Minister Mhona said he shared with Ms Molcean the efforts and challenges of Zimbabwe in transitioning to a low-carbon economy, especially in the transport sector, which accounts for about 15% of the country’s emissions. He said he sought the UNECE’s support in implementing the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
“We are determined to play our part in the global fight against climate change and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. We need the UNECE’s assistance in developing and financing green transport solutions that are affordable, accessible, and efficient,” Minister Mhona said.
A new era of cooperation
Ms Molcean, who assumed her role as the UNECE’s executive secretary in August 2023, said she was impressed by Minister Mhona’s vision and enthusiasm. Also, she said she was ready to enhance the collaboration between the UNECE and Zimbabwe on road safety, climate action, and other areas of mutual interest.
“I congratulate Minister Mhona for his leadership and initiative. Zimbabwe is a valued member of the UNECE and a key partner in Africa. I look forward to working with him and his team to advance our common goals and to make a positive difference for the people of Zimbabwe and the region,” Ms Molcean said.
The meeting was part of Minister Mhona’s participation in the 86th session of the UN Inland Transport Committee, which opened on Tuesday at the UN Palais Des Nations. The session, which runs until Friday, is focusing on the theme of “Taking ambitious climate action – Moving towards de-carbonised inland transport by 2050”.
The UNECE is one of the five regional commissions of the UN, covering 56 countries in Europe, North America, and Central Asia. It provides a platform for intergovernmental cooperation and policy dialogue on economic and social issues, including transport, trade, environment, energy, and statistics.
Source: The HeraldÂ
