“Energy access is not a luxury but a basic right” says Vice President.
Written by Staff Reporter on November 18, 2024
The Vice President of Zimbabwe, Honourable Dr Constantino Chiwenga, officially opened the first-ever Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Summit in Victoria Falls, on the 18th of November 2024.
The summit is running under the theme “Powering Zimbabwe and Zambia’s Sustainable Energy Future: Unlocking Opportunities in Renewables, Grid Modernization, and Energy Access.” It aims to address critical issues related to energy access, fostering investment in renewable energy projects, modernizing the grid infrastructure, and ensuring a sustainable energy future for both nations.
The guest of honour, Vice President Chiwenga, delivered an insightful speech emphasizing the importance of enhancing sustainable and reliable energy and power. He highlighted Zimbabwe’s Integrated Energy Resource Plan, a comprehensive strategy that encompasses renewable energy development, grid modernization, energy efficiency measures, and expanding access to reliable and affordable electricity for all citizens. Vice President Chiwenga said “This holistic approach aims to create a sustainable energy future that supports economic growth, social development, and environmental stewardship”.
General Chiwenga added that the challenge of energy remains one of the most pressing issues for both Zimbabwe and Zambia. While there is significant progress in enhancing energy for all, some rural areas still lag behind. The vice president implored the private sector and other stakeholder to commit to finding innovative solutions and to harness the power of new technologies such solar mini grids and smart grid to bring power to the remotest areas. “We cannot afford to leave anyone behind, Energy access is not a luxury but a basic right “he stressed.
Meanwhile, Minister of Energy of Zambia, Makozo Chikote revealed that Zambia and Zimbabwe are in a hurry to increase productivity in the mining and agricultural sectors, necessitating reliable and sufficient power. By encouraging private sector participation, Zambia plans to significantly boost copper production from 800,000 tonnes to 3 million tonnes by 2030 through investments in power and development projects. Minister Chikote emphasized, “By working in unity, we can help navigate and mitigate the crisis Zimbabwe and Zambia are facing.”
Honourable Edgar Moyo, Minister of Energy and Power Development, said that the vision is to create reliable and sufficient power for both Zimbabwe and Zambia, thereby enhancing economic growth, social development, and environmental sustainability. “This vision aligns with our commitment to ensuring a prosperous future for our nations” He emphasized.
In his closing remarks, The vice president, General (Rtd) C.G.D.N Chiwenga contended that the future of energy in Zimbabwe and Zambia is full of promise, however to attain this, strong collaboration and unwavering commitment is required. “Let us commit to working towards harnessing the full potential of our natural resources, build resilient and provide power to every home, school and business”. Chiwenga said..
Tafadzwa G Matsa.
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