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Elita Chikwati in Bulawayo
First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, who is the environment patron, yesterday launched the Integrated Environmental Schools Project at King George VI School in Bulawayo.

The programme seeks to promote economic empowerment of communities through sustainable management of the environment.

She was accompanied by Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs Judith Ncube and Environment, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Prisca Mupfumira.

The First Lady toured some  projects at the school, including the waste sorting site being spearheaded by the Environmental Management Agency, the computer laboratory where children with physical challenges were operating computers using different body parts and a fishery sponsored by Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority.

She seeded fish fingerlings and planted trees at the school.

Officially launching the Integrated Environmental Schools project, the First Lady said: “The programme brings together environment, water and climate issues in addressing community challenges with the aim to promote environmental sustainability across all sectors of life.

“Zimbabwe is a member of multilateral environmental agreements to promote a unified approach in environmental challenges facing the world.

“We have recognised the indispensable value of the environment in promoting economic turnaround, particularly in this new era where we are profiling our country for international engagement.”

The First Lady urged the nation to invest in ensuring a good environment that economically empowers people, especially women and youths.

She applauded the Ministry of Environment, Tourism and Hospitality Industry for coordinating operations and working as a team.

“Such an integration approach helps to ensure clean water, food security and a clean environment,” said the First Lady.

“This is our national inspiration to have a clean environment and be equipped not only for education, but as a source of income for the school and community.”

The First Lady said she was happy that the new syllabus included environmental issues.

Speaking at the same occasion, Minister Mupfumira said it was important to promote a healthy eco-system.