By Richard Shumba

Journalists from across Zimbabwe gathered in Harare yesterday for a Climate Justice Masterclass organized by Amnesty International Zimbabwe.

Climate experts emphasized the need for greater community participation in climate decision-making and increased support from developed nations to address the impacts of climate change.

The full-day training brought together journalists, climate justice advocates, and human rights practitioners to enhance reporting on climate change through a human rights lens and improve public understanding of climate justice issues.

Climate expert Lawrence Mashungu highlighted the strong connection between climate change and human rights, saying communities affected by climate-related challenges must be involved in decision-making on climate action and adaptation.

“We cannot separate human rights from climate change. Communities should benefit from and participate in decision-making,” Mashungu said.

He stressed that developed countries have a responsibility to contribute to climate solutions, referencing international commitments under the Paris Agreement and climate financing mechanisms, such as carbon credits.

Mashungu noted that many industrialized nations achieved economic growth through practices that significantly contributed to global greenhouse gas emissions, making climate finance a crucial aspect of climate justice.

Zimbabwe Climate Governance Advocate Frank Mpahlo pointed out that African countries continue to suffer from the effects of climate change, despite contributing relatively little to global carbon emissions.

“Those least responsible for climate change should not be required to bear disproportionate costs for addressing it,” Mpahlo stated.

He further highlighted Africa’s challenges in dealing with climate change, citing a lack of adequate economic and institutional capacity to respond effectively to its impacts.

Mpahlo also raised concerns about the limited influence of African nations in global climate decision-making processes, which hampers the continent’s ability to shape policies that directly affect its development and climate response efforts.

Addressing energy transition issues, Mpahlo described Africa as facing an “energy paradox,” where the continent is rich in natural energy resources, yet millions of people still lack access to electricity.

“For many Africans, the energy transition is not simply about replacing coal and oil; it is also about finally gaining access to modern clean energy,” he explained.

He pointed out that Africa has significant solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal resources that could help expand access to clean energy while also supporting economic development.

This Masterclass was part of Amnesty International Zimbabwe’s efforts to enhance media coverage of climate justice issues and encourage reporting that highlights the experiences of communities most affected by climate change. Richard Mugobo, Communications Officer for Amnesty International Zimbabwe, said informed, independent journalism can frame climate change as a human rights and accountability issue while amplifying the voices of affected communities.