By Dickson Bandera
Harare — Zimbabwe is set to host the 8th Regional Committee Meeting for Africa of the International Solar Alliance (ISA), following a preparatory visit by a delegation from the global solar body.
Ambassador Sh. Bramha Kumar, the Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe received the ISA mission led by Mr. Shishir Seth, which is in the country to coordinate logistical and policy arrangements ahead of the high-level meeting scheduled for later this year.
The conference will bring together government officials, energy experts, and development partners from across Africa to review progress in solar energy deployment and chart a path for expanded renewable energy investment on the continent.
Officials said the meeting will focus on mobilising financing for solar projects, strengthening regional cooperation, and accelerating access to clean energy, particularly in underserved rural areas.
The International Solar Alliance, launched in 2015 during the Paris Climate Conference (COP21), is a treaty-based organisation spearheaded by India and France to promote solar energy adoption globally. It currently comprises more than 100 member countries, many from Africa.
Zimbabwe’s selection as host is seen as a boost to its profile in regional energy diplomacy and comes as the country seeks to expand its renewable energy capacity amid persistent electricity shortages.
India’s key government institutions, including the Ministry of External Affairs (India) and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (India), are supporting the ISA initiative, reflecting New Delhi’s broader engagement with African countries on sustainable energy development.
Further details on the dates and venue of the meeting are expected to be announced once planning processes are finalised.
