Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Economy Associations
The Pitch
The Zimbabwe Chamber of Informal Economy Associations partnered with Masvingo Authorities to create green jobs in the informal sector and improve working conditions.
The Problem
Informal workers in Harare commonly lived in informal settlements, making them vulnerable to the impacts of climate change (such as heat, flooding and rain).
The Process
- Conducted a survey to understand public health, the impacts of climate change, and the job conditions and safety needs of informal workers
- Worked with the Masvingo Local Authorities to build new toilets for informal workers at the fruit and vegetable market
- Developed new tap water access point
- Opened refuse dumping sites and created refuse collection schedules for residents
- Created new green jobs for informal workers, strengthening the city’s waste and water management while providing livelihood opportunities
- Trained “Climate Change Champions” to monitor environmental issues, coordinate actions with authorities, and advocate for green jobs and climate action
The Impact
- Improved local waste management: 81% of survey respondents stated that garbage collection has improved after opening new dumping sites, and authorities now regularly update collection schedules and notify residents
- Improved water supply and quality: 73% of survey respondents reported water improvements and 100% said that local authorities fix burst sewer pipes more quickly
- Improved residents’ living conditions by making water a daily service provided by the city
- Improved public health, and health and hygiene among informal workers, by building toilets and increasing sanitation at informal workplaces
- Built a green economy founded on waste diversion
- Supported informal workers to turn used car tires and stationary files into sandals
- Enabled waste pickers to contribute to recycling efforts
- Increased representation of the informal sector at Council meetings through Climate Change Champions that advocate for their needs and share climate action ideas
- Included women: Women make up a large part of the informal sector and now hold Council leadership positions
- Built local trust
- Increased city revenue to dedicate to future public support projects: The percentage of residents paying bills doubled, going from 30% to 60%
