Mako Jerera
Vice President Dr. General (Rtd.) C.D.G.N. Chiwenga officially opened the Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects 2024 Summit yesterday at the Elephant Hills Resort in Victoria Falls.
The Summit is running until November 20 2024, under the theme “Powering Zimbabwe and Zambia’s Sustainable Energy Future: Unlocking Opportunities in Renewables, Grid Modernization, and Energy Access.”
In his keynote address, Dr. Chiwenga underscored the summit’s significance as the global energy sector grapples with finding sustainable solutions.
He emphasized the necessity of clean, reliable, and affordable energy to improve the livelihoods of Zimbabwe’s citizens and foster development.
Speaking on the partnership between Zimbabwe and Zambia in energy initiatives, Dr. Chiwenga expressed concern over the lack of access to reliable energy in rural areas and its impact on industrial growth, noting that, “no one should be left behind in the energy revolution.”
He called for increased investment in both grid-connected and off-grid energy solutions, asserting that access to energy is a fundamental right rather than a luxury.
Dr. Chiwenga further pointed out the countries’ untapped potential in renewable energy, especially given their abundant solar resources. He urged both nations to prioritize modernizing power transmission infrastructure to enhance energy efficiency and reliability.
Zambia’s Minister of Energy, Hon. Makhozo Chikote also addressed the summit, acknowledging energy as the cornerstone of development.
While noting the recent drought’s impact on Kariba Dam’s water levels, which caused significant energy challenges, Hon Chikote highlighted the importance of clean, efficient, and stable energy systems. He emphasized the summit as a platform to attract investors for energy development projects.
Zimbabwe’s Minister of Energy and Power Development, Hon. Edgar Moyo echoed the call to action, urging investors to help unlock the energy opportunities in the region. The summit also hosted notable dignitaries, including the European Union Ambassador to Zimbabwe, underscoring the global interest in supporting the region’s energy transition.
The Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects Summit 2024 serves as a critical step in fostering collaboration and innovation to ensure a sustainable energy future for both nations.
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