Moses Ziyambi
Professor Zvobgo addresses delegates to the 2026 ICCRSF at Emperor’s Palace, Kempton Park, Johannesburg, South Africa on August 26, 2025.
Great Zimbabwe University (GZU) Vice Chancellor, Professor Rungano Zvobgo, delivered a message at the International Conference on Climate Resilient, Smart and Sustainable Futures (ICCRSF) this week, warning that the climate crisis was no longer a distant threat but a present, urgent reality.
Speaking at Emperor’s Palace in South Africa on August 26, Prof. Zvobgo called for a unified front among academics, industry leaders, and policymakers to combat the accelerating effects of climate change.
“Climate change is not just an environmental crisis; it is a humanitarian, economic, and social justice crisis,” he stated, emphasising that building climate resilience requires more than just talk; it demands innovation, inclusive governance, and interdisciplinary partnerships.
Prof. Zvobgo championed a proactive approach, highlighting the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, big data, and smart energy systems. He argued these technologies are essential for creating infrastructure and communities strong enough to withstand future climate shocks.
He went on to define sustainability as a moral obligation to future generations, stressing the need for equitable solutions. He then offered a memorable definition of resilience as “the ability not only to recover, but to advance.”
With delegates from across Africa and beyond, the conference, which runs from August 25 to 29, serves as a crucial platform for discussing climate adaptation and sustainable development. Prof. Zvobgo praised the diversity of the attendees, from climatologists and economists to engineers and social scientists, calling it the conference’s greatest strength.
In a forward-looking move, the Vice Chancellor invited participants to the 2026 ICCRSF conference, which Great Zimbabwe University will proudly host.
Prof. Zvobgo is leading the GZU delegation, which includes GZU Registrar, Dr. Sinikiwe Gwatidzo and other senior members of the university staff.
Source: GZU Facebook Page
