Climate Activists Urge Stronger Gender-Responsive Climate Action Following COP30 Outcomes

By Chipo Brenda

Climate change activists have called on global leaders to strengthen gender-responsive climate action following the recently concluded COP30 conference held in Belém, Brazil. The activists made the remarks during an online briefing to journalists aimed at unpacking the outcomes of the summit — particularly the ambitious One Trillion Dollar Plan.

The One Trillion Dollar Plan, introduced at COP30, focuses on climate adaptation financing, boosting renewable energy, building global solidarity frameworks, and supporting countries to develop climate-resilient systems.

The activists emphasized that women, girls, and gender-diverse communities must have equitable access to climate finance, leadership roles, and capacity-building opportunities. They argued that these groups already shoulder the greatest burden of climate impacts at the household and community levels.

Dr. Mweetwa Mudenda of Apex Medical University in Zambia warned that climate change is contributing to a rise in climate-sensitive diseases, underscoring the need for stronger community involvement — especially from women — in adaptation efforts.

He cited increasing cases of malaria, cholera, and dysentery, noting that prolonged extreme weather events are directly straining health systems.

“Communities must be involved so they determine the right actions, understand how to adapt, and remain resilient to climate shocks,” Dr. Mudenda said.

He added that climate change is not only about feeling hot or cold, but about experiencing long-lasting or extreme shifts in weather patterns driven largely by human activity. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 3.6 billion people are already exposed to climate-related threats, a number expected to rise without urgent global action.

During the online climate science café, participant Violet Otindo noted that the most vulnerable regions require immediate attention, especially when climate financing is allocated by governments.

Moderator Lorraine Chisanga stressed the need for faster delivery on climate funding pledges made at previous COP meetings, warning that delays undermine climate-health resilience. She also emphasized the importance of training journalists to accurately interpret scientific information for the public.

Harry Simanthala of the Latu Foundation in Zambia highlighted the need for countries to strengthen domestic resource mobilization so communities can lead climate action instead of depending heavily on external donors.

“With the withdrawal of USAID from supporting health services in many countries, governments and the private sector must work together to fill the gap,” he said.

He added that governments should shift resources to the most vulnerable sectors while still seeking external funding opportunities.

Scientists have also warned that climate change is endangering indigenous plant species across the globe, prompting researchers to explore innovations aimed at preserving biodiversity and protecting ecological systems for future generations.