Policy response and implementation for climate refugees in the Southern African Development Community: a case study of Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Abstract

This research aimed to assess the challenges that are being faced by Zimbabwe and Mozambique in the implementation of effective policies that address the challenges facing climate refugees. After reviewing some literature on the challenges faced by Zimbabwe and Mozambique in addressing the climate refugees concerns, the research noted that Zimbabwe and Mozambique are still lagging behind in providing adequate protection and assistance to populations displaced due to climate change. The research utilized qualitative research methodology and employed a case study as a research design. The study utilized primary and secondary data. With regards to primary data, the researcher went into the field collecting data through key-informant interviews, structured questionnaires and observations. For secondary data the research took cognisance of prior research on the challenges faced by the SADC region in implementing effective policies for climate refugees. The study selected 20 participants from the study population and among these are climate refugees, government officials and academics. Key findings of this study indicated that financial resource constraints, lack of political will and lack of adequate data are the major challenges facing Zimbabwe and Mozambique in implementing effective policy frameworks that address the challenges faced by climate refugees. The findings also indicates that there is need for integrated approaches that considers the socio-economic and political contexts of climate –related displacement. From the analysis of findings, this research concluded that there is need to inform policymakers and stakeholders in developing comprehensive strategies that not only address immediate humanitarian needs but also promote sustainable development and long-term solutions for climate refuges in the region. Therefore, this study recommends that there is need to enhance resilience and improve the livelihoods of climate-affected populations in both countries.