Zimbabwe’s Vice President General (Retired) Dr. Constantino Guveya Dominic Nyikadzino Chiwenga (centre) pose for a group photo with other Summit attendees
By George Swarei
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe – November 18, 2024
The inaugural Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects Summit has set the stage for transformative collaborations aimed at fostering sustainable energy and economic growth. The event, graced by Zimbabwe’s Vice President, General (Retired) Dr. Constantino Chiwenga, alongside Energy Ministers from both nations, highlighted the urgent need for regional partnerships to address energy challenges and catalyze industrial progress.
In his opening remarks, Vice President Chiwenga lauded the summit as a pivotal platform for exploring shared opportunities and addressing the pressing energy demands of Southern Africa. He underscored the strategic importance of the Zambezi River, not only as a critical source of hydroelectric power but also as a lifeline for communities, agriculture, and biodiversity.
“Our partnership with Zambia demonstrates the potential of regional collaboration to unlock new energy resources while addressing climate challenges. The energy crisis must become a catalyst for innovation and resilience,” he stated.
Zimbabwe’s Minister of Energy and Power Development, Honourable Edgar Moyo, provided an in-depth overview of the country’s energy policies and initiatives. He acknowledged the growing demand for electricity driven by industrialization, particularly in energy-intensive sectors like mining and mineral refining.
“To meet our goals, Zimbabwe has adopted policies such as the National Renewable Energy Policy and the Biofuels Policy, which focus on expanding renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and modernizing our grid,” Minister Moyo explained.
He further highlighted the Zambezi River’s untapped hydropower potential, urging investors to explore sustainable power generation projects along its length. Moyo also emphasized the significance of regional cooperation, noting that integrated solutions could mitigate the impacts of climate change on shared resources like the Kariba Dam.
Zambia’s Energy Minister, Honourable Makozo Chikote, echoed similar sentiments, presenting Zambia’s Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) as a blueprint for energy diversification. The plan aims to reduce dependence on hydroelectric power, which has been severely affected by recurring droughts, and prioritize solar, wind, and other renewables.
“We must increase the participation of Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to attract investments and meet our energy needs sustainably. By integrating renewables and modernizing our grid, we can create a stable energy future that supports industries and communities alike,” said Minister Chikote.
The energy sector is also pivotal to Zambia’s mining ambitions, including the target of producing 3 million metric tonnes of copper annually by 2035. Chikote emphasized that clean energy investments in mining operations would enhance environmental sustainability and global competitiveness.
Both ministers underscored the importance of shared resources and regional cooperation. From managing the Zambezi River to enhancing energy trade, Zimbabwe and Zambia are forging stronger ties to ensure energy security and economic resilience across Southern Africa.
Vice President Chiwenga concluded the session by urging stakeholders to seize this opportunity for transformative partnerships. “Our countries share common challenges and aspirations. Together, we can build an energy sector that powers our economies and uplifts our people,” he declared.
The Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects Summit stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in addressing complex regional issues. As discussions unfold over the coming days, stakeholders from both nations are expected to finalize agreements and chart a roadmap for sustainable energy and industrial growth.
From policy frameworks to cross-border investments, Zimbabwe and Zambia are laying the groundwork for a new era of energy and economic cooperation that promises to benefit the entire region.
