Anthrax in Zimbabwe: Caused by Oppression, Worsened by Climate Change

Anthrax outbreaks in Zimbabwe, initially used as a bioweapon, are intensifying due to the country's changing climate, characterized by increased warmth and precipitation. The situation is exacerbated by underlying issues of oppression, highlighting the intersection of environmental and socio-political challenges.

Between Flood and Famine

Mozambique faces severe climate challenges, including cyclones, floods, and droughts, exacerbated by financial constraints and historical debt scandals. Despite limited contributions to global emissions, the country is highly vulnerable to climate disasters. Efforts to build resilience, such as the Beira Master Plan and mangrove reforestation, are underway but hindered by financial and technical limitations. The country's economic reliance on coal and natural gas exports complicates its transition to a low-carbon economy. International aid, particularly from the US, plays a crucial role, but geopolitical interests may influence support. The upcoming presidential elections could impact future climate resilience funding priorities.

Anthrax in Zimbabwe: Caused by Oppression, Worsened by Climate Change

Zimbabwe faces a severe anthrax outbreak exacerbated by climate change and historical factors. The disease, which affects both humans and livestock, has roots in the country's liberation war when it was reportedly used as a bioweapon. Current outbreaks are worsened by climate change, leading to increased vulnerability in rural areas. The Zimbabwean government is taking steps to control the outbreak, including importing vaccines and planning local production. However, economic challenges and political isolation complicate efforts to eradicate the disease. Experts emphasize the need for public awareness and effective veterinary services to combat future outbreaks.

Zimbabwe Struggles With Drug-Resistant Disease Strains

Stricken Zimbabweans look to philanthropy for food aid

Zimbabwe is facing a severe food crisis due to El Niño-induced droughts, particularly affecting staple crops like maize. Despite the critical need, philanthropic support for climate change resilience in Africa remains minimal. Local farmers and organizations emphasize the importance of sustainable solutions, such as drought-resistant crops and irrigation projects, to combat recurring food shortages. The African Self-Help Assistance Programme and Mhakwe Heritage Foundation Trust are among the organizations actively working to address these challenges through various initiatives, including cash transfers and school feeding programs. However, the overall food situation remains dire, with calls for increased philanthropic involvement to build long-term resilience.

Zimbabwe’s toxic gold rush: how would-be treasure hunters are causing ecological disaster

Illegal gold mining in Penhalonga, Zimbabwe, is causing severe ecological damage, with mercury pollution posing significant health risks. Despite the Minamata Convention's ban on mercury, its use persists, driven by the global gold market. The environmental and health impacts are dire, affecting local communities and ecosystems. Efforts to find safer gold extraction methods, such as using sodium borate, are underway, but awareness and implementation remain challenges.

Zimbabwe’s toxic gold rush: how would-be treasure hunters are causing ecological disaster

In Penhalonga, Zimbabwe, illegal gold mining activities are causing severe ecological damage, including deforestation, water pollution, and mercury contamination. The local economy's collapse has driven many to mine gold, with an estimated 800,000 people involved in illegal mining. The use of mercury, a neurotoxin, in gold extraction is widespread despite health risks and international efforts to ban its use. Studies have shown increased mercury levels in local populations, with serious health implications. Efforts are being made to introduce safer gold extraction methods, such as using sodium borate.

Zimbabwe’s toxic gold rush: how would-be treasure hunters are causing ecological disaster

Illegal gold mining in Penhalonga, Zimbabwe, has led to severe ecological damage, including deforestation, water pollution, and mercury contamination. The economic crisis has driven approximately 800,000 people into illegal mining, exacerbating environmental degradation. Mercury, used to extract gold, poses significant health risks, with exposure leading to serious health issues. Despite Zimbabwe ratifying the Minamata Convention on Mercury, the toxin remains prevalent in mining areas. Efforts are being made to find safer gold extraction methods, but awareness and implementation are still lacking.

Zimbabwe Looks to China to Secure Place in EV Battery Supply Chain

Chinese companies have heavily invested in Zimbabwe's lithium, aiming to secure a significant share of the global EV battery supply chain. Despite being displaced by the $130 million Sabi Star lithium mine, locals like Wonder Mushove are hopeful for regional upliftment. Zimbabwe's lithium reserves, the largest in Africa, have attracted over $1.4 billion in Chinese investments, with more expected. The government, under President Emmerson Mnangagwa, aspires to make Zimbabwe a battery manufacturing hub, despite concerns over resource governance and community benefits. Chinese battery giants like BYD are sourcing lithium from Zimbabwe, and investments in processing infrastructure are underway. However, challenges remain, including the need for value addition and regional cooperation to fully capitalize on the energy transition.

Zimbabwe looks to China to secure place in EV battery supply chain

Chinese companies have heavily invested in Zimbabwe's lithium mining sector, aiming to secure a place in the global EV battery supply chain. Zimbabwe, with its vast lithium reserves, seeks to process some of the mineral locally to boost economic development. However, challenges such as poor resource governance, human rights concerns, and regulatory gaps persist. President Emmerson Mnangagwa aims to transform Zimbabwe into a battery manufacturing hub by 2030. Local communities have mixed feelings about the mining projects, with some hopeful for economic upliftment and others critical of displacement and inadequate local benefits.