Ministry of Green Economy and Environment Advocates for Alternatives to Charcoal
The Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu MP, delivered a speech at the Alternatives to Charcoal Capstone Event held at Taj Pamodzi Hotel, emphasizing the need to reduce deforestation linked to charcoal production in the country.
In his address, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu expressed gratitude to USAID and Prospero for organizing the crucial event aimed at addressing deforestation concerns related to charcoal production.
Charcoal currently dominates household energy security in Zambia, with over 75% of peri-urban and urban households using it as their primary cooking fuel, regardless of income levels.
The Minister acknowledged that charcoal is accessible, affordable, and culturally preferred, making it a widely chosen cooking fuel.
However, with the rising population and increasing demand for charcoal, there is a parallel surge in production, leading to over-exploitation of Zambia’s biodiverse forests and endangering their rich biodiversity.
Highlighting the challenges hindering the widespread adoption of alternative technologies and fuels, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu mentioned cultural barriers, poor business conditions, and value chain inefficiencies.
He stressed the importance of finding acceptable and affordable alternatives to charcoal to protect Zambia’s forests and natural resources.
The Minister commended the USAID Alternatives to Charcoal project for consistent support in reducing charcoal use, focusing on increased adoption of alternative technologies and fuels in urban and peri-urban households in Lusaka, Ndola, Kitwe, and Solwezi.
Acknowledging the livelihood aspect of charcoal production, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu assured that any sustainable solutions must consider the livelihoods of those engaged in the charcoal value chain.
The Ministry is committed to policies that balance environmental conservation with the socio-economic needs of the people.
Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu highlighted the importance of making alternative technologies and fuels accessible, acceptable, and affordable to reduce charcoal consumption.
He commended the USAID Alternatives to Charcoal project for identifying gaps in companies providing alternative solutions and initiating the Growth Technical Assistance Program to address these gaps.
The Minister concluded by urging graduating companies from the program to contribute to the clean cooking energy industry, positively impacting household use of alternative technologies and fuels.
The government’s expectation is that these companies will play a significant role in achieving greenhouse gas reduction commitments, promoting alternatives to charcoal, and reducing deforestation.
In closing, Hon. Eng. Collins Nzovu thanked Prospero Limited for implementing the project and providing essential technical support to cohort participants.
He assured participants that the government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses in the green sector.
