Govt Advocates for Collaboration in Carbon Projects to Boost Green Growth
The Zambian government, through the Ministry of Green Economy and Environment, is calling for increased collaboration in carbon projects as part of its efforts to promote green growth and low-carbon development.
Speaking during a visit to the Consolidated Farming Limited (Kafue Sugar) Initiative in Shibuyunji district, Director of Green Economy and Climate Change, Mr. Ephraim Shitima, emphasized the need to identify and develop potential carbon projects, particularly in the energy sector.
Mr. Shitima highlighted the importance of these projects in reducing emissions and supporting Zambia’s energy sector during the ongoing energy crisis. “The government is encouraging the development of carbon projects, not only because of the current crisis but also due to their potential to reduce emissions,” he stated. He added that increasing energy sector projects aligns with the country’s agenda for green growth.
The visit, which included officials from the Swedish Energy Agency and local leaders, was part of the government’s efforts under the SPAR6C program. This initiative, funded by the Swedish government, aims to support carbon projects in Zambia under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.
The Consolidated Farming Limited (Kafue Sugar) Initiative is one of the pilot projects selected to receive support from SPAR6C, with plans to generate 40 megawatts of electricity from sugarcane bagasse, a renewable energy source.
Mr. Shitima expressed gratitude to the local leadership, including Senior Chief Shakumbila, the area Member of Parliament Hon. Jamba Machila, the Shibuyunji Council Chairperson, and the District Commissioner, for their support.
He noted that the project has the potential to alleviate pressure on the national grid and create employment opportunities in the district. “This carbon project will not only help reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also increase electricity generation, addressing both climate change and energy challenges,” he said.
SPAR6C Project consultant Mr. Martin Burian underscored the significance of the outgrower scheme component of the project, which aims to enhance food security in the community by enabling local farmers to grow sugarcane alongside their usual crops.
He highlighted the high global warming potential of methane emissions from the sugar production process and the need to address this issue.
Kafue Sugar Limited Director, Mr. Yusuf Alloo, detailed the company’s growth since its establishment in 2018, noting that it has become the largest employer in Shibuyunji with over 3,000 employees.
He outlined plans to secure funding for the biomass power project and an outgrower scheme, which would involve the local community in sugarcane production and develop 2,000 hectares of land for high-value crops.
Senior Chief Shakumbila of the Sala-Ila people welcomed the project, recognizing its potential to bring economic opportunities to the region. The delegation also visited Shamulumba Village, where they engaged with the local community to discuss the project’s benefits.
