Transition To Renewable Energy Non-negotiable-Mnangagwa

By Shingirai Vambe

Victoria Fall-The crisis affecting business and the livelihood of the human race in the Southern African region has been amplified at the just ended 29th session of the Conference of Parties in Kabu, Arzebaijan, as one of the major areas that need serious attention as member states was discussed.

The country Zimbabwe, will host the the ‘Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects Summit 2024’. This high-level summit will give investors the opportunity to hear about the progress both countries are making with their energy project plans and the improvements being made to create a more enabling energy investment environment.

The Vice President, Constantino Guvheya Chiwenga will officially open the summit.

Giving his opening remarks at COP29, the President, CDE Emmerson D. Mnangagwa said the transition to renewable energy was non-negotiable, as the major source between the two countries, Hydro energy from Kariba dam resulted in a major setback due to the El Nino induced drought.

“Zimbabwe bears the scars of climate change and currently experiencing one of the most devastating El Nino induced droughts in history, the Drought has negatively impacted nearly every aspect of life in Zimbabwe. My Government in April this year declared a national state of disaster, the crisis extends beyond Zimbabwe and is affecting the entire southern African region,” added Mnangagwa.

He further stated that the reliance of the country from hydro electro power has also made clean energy supply precarious.

“The Transition to renewable energy is non-negotiable, while financial and technological support for developing countries are critically important to drive the climate action agenda. As such my country is implementing the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDCs) Implementation Plan and Investment Framework to add in our resource mobilization,” Said President Mnangagwa.

A recent report from UN Climate Change shows that current national climate plans (NDCs) are still dangerously off-track to avert the crippling effects of climate change on every country and every economy.

Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) CEO, Edington Mazambani said the Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects Summit embodies our commitment to a sustainable future. Together, we will explore the vast opportunities in renewables, modernize the grids, and ensure energy access for all.

“Let us unite in our vision to power Zimbabwe and Zambia’s sustainable energy future, unlocking potential for growth, innovation and collaboration.” added Mazambani