Zimbabwe, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched the second phase of the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF), a strategic initiative designed to strengthen rural communities against climate and economic shocks.
With funding of US$17 million from the European Union (EU) and the Government of Ireland, the program will run until 2028, targeting seven districts across the Mid-Zambezi and Southeast Lowveld regions. This initiative is not just about providing immediate relief; it is a forward-looking intervention that aligns with Zimbabwe’s economic vision.
By integrating climate adaptation, sustainable agriculture, and private-sector participation, ZRBF-2 is expected to play a critical role in achieving the goals outlined in the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and Vision 2030.
ZRBF-2 represents a major investment in Zimbabwe’s agricultural sector, which remains the backbone of the economy, supporting over 60% of the population. The focus on resilience building ensures that smallholder farmers and rural communities—who are often the most vulnerable to droughts, floods, and economic shocks—can transition from subsistence farming to commercially viable agricultural enterprises.
Speaking at the launch, FAO Resident Representative Dr. Patrice Talla emphasized the program’s transformative potential, saying, “The initiative strengthens Zimbabwe’s ability to withstand climate-related challenges while creating economic opportunities.” By promoting climate-smart agriculture, sustainable irrigation, and disaster risk reduction, ZRBF-2 will help build a more robust agricultural economy that can sustain livelihoods and drive rural development.
Furthermore, the initiative aligns with government efforts to modernize and commercialize agriculture under Vision 2030. The promotion of traditional grains, legumes, and sunflowers—crops that thrive in Zimbabwe’s climatic conditions—ensures food security while expanding market opportunities for farmers. As Zimbabwe pushes towards attaining upper-middle-income status by 2030, investments in resilience and economic diversification are critical.
Professor Obert Jiri, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, highlighted the need for a long-term vision, stating, “Humanitarian aid is temporary, but resilience building is sustainable. ZRBF-1 was a game-changer, and ZRBF-2 will accelerate our journey towards self-sufficiency, supporting Vision 2030 by ensuring our rural communities become economically productive.”
Beyond agriculture, the fund’s emphasis on private-sector engagement ensures long-term sustainability. UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Edward Kallon noted that resilience-building must go beyond aid and integrate business solutions. “Resilience must be made attractive to investors and development banks. We need to ensure that green growth becomes a viable economic pathway for Zimbabwe,” he said.
ZRBF-2 is more than an economic initiative; it is a social transformation program. In the seven targeted districts—Binga, Kariba, Hurungwe, Mbire, Chiredzi, Mwenezi, and Beitbridge—thousands of households will benefit from improved access to irrigation, climate-resilient farming techniques, and alternative income streams. These interventions are expected to lift families out of poverty while enhancing food security and household stability.
EU Ambassador Jobst Von Kirchmann stressed the long-term importance of resilience building, stating, “This initiative is not about short-term fixes. It is about giving people the tools they need to thrive in a changing climate.” Irish Ambassador Austin Gormley echoed similar sentiments, saying, “Community involvement and capacity building will be key to ensuring that the program has a lasting impact on people’s lives.”
The first phase of ZRBF demonstrated tangible results, such as improved food production, increased household incomes, and better disaster preparedness. UNDP Resident Representative Balázs Horváth reaffirmed the program’s impact, saying, “The Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund is a flagship initiative that has already proven its effectiveness. With Phase Two, we are taking resilience-building to the next level.”
With this renewed commitment from development partners and government stakeholders, Zimbabwe is taking a decisive step towards not only securing rural livelihoods but also reinforcing its economic stability.
As the country continues its journey towards Vision 2030, ZRBF-2 stands out as a model for resilience-driven development—one that prioritizes sustainability, economic growth, and the well-being of Zimbabwean communities.
