Abiah Madzudzo &
Blessing Nduku
Young people in Gweru are increasingly turning to creativity and play to address climate change, one of the world’s most pressing challenges.
Through interactive games, digital challenges, and community-based activities, these youths are learning about environmental conservation in engaging and impactful ways.
These innovative approaches are not only raising awareness about climate issues but also empowering young participants to become active agents of change within their schools and communities.
Organized by the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), the initiative has attracted dozens of young people from various suburbs of the city.
The games are designed to simplify complex climate issues while encouraging teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership among participants.
Through its “Climate Games” initiative, the YMCA is moving beyond traditional awareness campaigns by utilizing board games and interactive play to make the complex issue of climate change more accessible, engaging, and actionable for the community.
During a workshop, YMCA Climate Change Game Developer Evidence Chipadza emphasized the power of these g their ability to inform, educate, and motivate people to take concrete action in protecting the environment,” he said.
“Climate change is a serious issue, but learning about it through games makes it easier to understand and motivates us to take action. We are not just playing; we are learning how our daily choices affect the environment.”Chipadza also highlighted the importance of design thinking theory when creating a game.’
“Using design thinking theory is crucial because it encourages innovation, provides order and direction, and brings all partners together, especially those working on similar initiatives.”
Gweru Branch Coordinator Tafadzwa Makore explained that the games challenge players to make decisions similar to real-life environmental choices, such as balancing economic development with environmental protection, managing natural resources responsibly, and responding to climate-related disasters.
The YMCA initiative has demonstrated that when young people engage through creativity and play, climate education becomes both meaningful and impactful.
By embracing innovative games as tools for learning and advocacy, Gweru’s youths are not only deepening their understanding of environmental challenges but also inspiring practical action within their communities.
As the program continues to grow, it serves as a powerful reminder that the fight against climate change can be driven by youthful energy, innovation, and collective responsibility.
