Hon. Moyo Calls for Regional Cooperation and Investment in Renewable Energy at the ZIM-ZAM Energy Summit
The inaugural Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects Summit kicked off on November 18th in Victoria Falls, with leaders from both nations emphasizing the critical need for regional cooperation and investment to meet growing energy demands.
The summit, which runs from November 18 to 20, 2024, brings together government officials, energy experts, and investors to address challenges in energy poverty, security, and climate change.
In his keynote address, Honourable Edgar Moyo, Minister of Energy and Power Development of Zimbabwe, welcomed delegates and highlighted the shared energy challenges faced by both Zimbabwe and Zambia.
“Our growing population and increasing industrialization are putting immense pressure on our energy resources,” Moyo said. “It is our responsibility to ensure that the energy demands are met sustainably while promoting economic growth and environmental sustainability.”
Hon. Moyo also emphasized the potential of the Zambezi River as a critical resource for hydropower generation, stressing the need to fully harness its power at multiple points along its length.
He invited investors to explore the opportunities presented by the river, noting that the Zambezi River Authority representatives were available to provide more information on potential investments.
Both Zimbabwe and Zambia face the effects of climate change, which has resulted in lower rainfall and reduced hydropower capacity, particularly at the Kariba Dam. Despite these challenges, Moyo emphasized that both countries are committed to upgrading their energy infrastructure and expanding renewable energy capacity, including solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, to ensure long-term energy security.
The summit also served as a platform for discussing policies that support the energy transition, such as Zimbabwe’s National Renewable Energy Policy and the Biofuels Policy. Moyo outlined the government’s plans to improve energy efficiency, modernize the grid, and enhance energy access, especially in rural areas.
“We are committed to creating an attractive investment climate and believe the private sector plays a pivotal role in driving the energy sector forward,” Moyo said. “Together, we can harness the power of renewable energy to fuel economic growth, improve livelihoods, and protect our environment.”
The summit’s participants also had the opportunity to explore Zimbabwe’s beautiful natural scenery, including the world-famous Victoria Falls, while engaging in discussions on the region’s energy future.
In closing, Moyo urged delegates to maximize the networking opportunities during the summit, emphasizing that energy investments were key to powering both countries’ sustainable development.
