Zambia and DRC Join Forces with Brazil to Power Clean Energy Revolution

In a remarkable display of diplomatic collaboration, the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia in Brazil has announced its intention to strengthen its partnership with the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in Brazil. 

The primary objective of this enhanced collaboration is to unlock the immense potential of both nations in the clean energy sector.

Following a courtesy visit to the Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Congo in Brazil, Zambian Ambassador to Brazil, Glyne Michelo, expressed his enthusiasm for the deepening relations between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia in Brazil.

He stressed the pivotal role these relations play in boosting trade between these nations and Brazil.

Ambassador Michelo underlined the significant role that Zambia and the DRC can play in providing Brazil with access to electric car batteries.

Notably, these two African countries are home to at least 80% of the minerals essential for the production of electric vehicle batteries, making them crucial players in Brazil’s quest for sustainable energy solutions.

Brazil’s ambitious initiatives, including the National Hydrogen program and Fuel of the Future program, have set the stage for new advancements in energy innovation. 

Ambassador Michelo emphasized that the DRC and Zambia should seize this opportunity to leverage their potential and capacity in assisting Brazil in achieving its goals of becoming a clean energy-driven economy.

“Brazil, responsible for almost 7% of the planet’s renewable energy production despite its 3% share of the global population, has long been a pioneer in biofuels and hydropower technologies,” stated Mr. Michelo, highlighting the potential for the DRC and Zambia to contribute positively to Brazil’s clean energy endeavors.

Ambassador Michelo further revealed that both President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia and his counterpart, Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC, are unwavering in their commitment to transforming their nations into key players in the clean energy sector.

Their vision goes beyond exporting raw materials; they aspire to provide electric car batteries to some of the world’s leading economies.

“We must harness our collective resources to unlock our economic potential, creating employment opportunities for our youth and alleviating poverty,” emphasized Mr. Michelo.

He stressed the untapped economic strength that Africa possesses and the potential for it to be realized through cooperative efforts.

In a significant milestone, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo signed a historic cooperation agreement in 2022. This agreement serves as a blueprint for bilateral collaboration in developing the electric battery value chain and advancing clean energy initiatives. 

The united strategy is expected to generate employment opportunities for both Congolese and Zambians, ultimately bolstering the economies of both nations.

In response, Democratic Republic of Congo to Brazil Ambassador Mibanga Ngala-Mulume Wa Badidike expressed his satisfaction with the robust political and economic relationship shared between the two countries. 

He called for an increase in cross-border trade and investment as a means to create job opportunities, especially for the youth and women.

This collaborative effort between Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Brazil not only promises to foster economic growth but also holds the potential to reshape the global clean energy landscape.

As these nations join forces, they are poised to play a vital role in addressing the world’s energy and environmental challenges.

This information is contained in a statement issued by Issued by Lloyd Kapusa, First Secretary-Press & Public Relations, Embassy of the Republic of Zambia-Brazil