By Clayton Shereni

WOMEN’s Coalition of Zimbabwe (WCoZ),  Masvingo Chapter, commemorated the World Environment Day were women from various walks of life joined the rest of the world in commemorating the annual event. 

This year’s theme is “Solution for Plastic Pollution” under the campaign #BeatPlasticPollution.

Stakeholders from various civic society organizations and government  departments attended the event and pledged their commitment towards ending plastic pollution.

In a presentation during the celebrations, Masvingo Community Development Officer at the Ministry of Women’s Affairs, Piwai Ziso challenged women to be at the forefront of keeping the environment clean as they are primarily responsible for the environment.

“Women are primarily responsible for the environment and as we do our day to day chores, it is our duty to make sure that we operate in a clean and friendly environment. I would like to challenge each and everyone of you to up your game in protecting the environment,” Ziso said.

Speaking at the same event, Community Working Group on Health (CWGH) and WCoZ Masvingo Environment cluster leader, Entrance Takaidza called for unity of purpose in keeping the environment clean.

“We want a permanent solution to plastic pollution. As we celebrate this day, we would like to urge every concerned citizen to play their role in keeping the environment around them clean and safe,” said Takaidza.

WCoZ Masvingo chapter chairperson, Moreblessing Manenji told Centre News that: “Women should participate  in decision making concerning Environment .Women must also prevent plastic pollution and protect the environment as they are the most affected ones.”

Some of the organizations that participated at the event include; EnviroPress, Centre for Gender and Community Development in Zimbabwe (CGCDZ), City of Masvingo and Legal Resources Foundation (LRF).