Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, speaking on behalf of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, underscored Zimbabwe’s commitment to robust solutions in the energy sector to meet the 2030 targets.
Addressing delegates at the fifth International Renewable Energy Conference held in Victoria Falls last Friday, Chiwenga highlighted the global obligations undertaken by Zimbabwe. “Players and stakeholders in the energy sector, have a responsibility to proffer and implement robust solutions to propel the attainment of the 2030 energy sector targets. As we do so, it is critically important that we remain cognisant of our obligations and commitments at the global level. More so that Zimbabwe joined the comity of nations in supporting the Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge as well as the Cooling Pledge at COP 28 held in the United Arab Emirates last November.
Chiwenga stressed the urgency of addressing climate change challenges and the imperative for bold interventions and investments to bridge the energy gap. “This is set to double our national energy- mix, while contributing to regional energy security and investment opportunities that leaves no one and no place behind. The multi-pronged challenges of climate change coupled with the urgent need to industrialise our country demand you to be bold and decisive in the type of interventions and investments you make to close the energy gap. We cannot be found wanting and must keep up with the rest of the world.
“On the part of my government, we are supporting the ‘Empowering Lives and Livelihoods Initiative’ launched at COP 28. The programme aims to broaden dialogue and partnerships on the nexus around water, agriculture, food systems and health value chains, as these relate to energy transition. To date, we are grateful for the invaluable partnership and support from the International Renewable Energy Agency, for the development of a Country Programme and Prioritised Strategy,” he said
He expressed gratitude for partnerships with international organizations like the International Renewable Energy Agency, particularly for their support in developing a Country Programme and Prioritized Strategy, which will facilitate access to clean energy in critical sectors like health and agriculture.
While acknowledging Zimbabwe’s progress in stabilizing and increasing total energy output, the Vice President emphasized the need for consistent access to clean energy across all provinces, including rural communities.
He called upon the Ministry of Energy and Power Development to enhance awareness of energy conservation and efficiency, recognizing the pressing global issue of climate change and its impact on Zimbabwe’s energy sector. He urged the conference participants to engage in thought-provoking conversations aimed at advancing sustainable growth and improving the quality of life, even in the face of climate change challenges.
