CTPD Applauds New National Strategy to Tackle Zambia’s Charcoal Crisis
The Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) has applauded the Zambian government, through the Ministry of Green Economy and Climate Change (MGECC), for initiating the development of a National Charcoal Transition Strategy aimed at addressing the country’s escalating deforestation crisis.
The intervention comes at a critical time, as Zambia continues to record an alarming deforestation rate of 250 to 300 hectares per year. With over 80% of households relying on charcoal and firewood as their primary cooking energy sources, the pressure on the nation’s forests has intensified, contributing significantly to environmental degradation and climate vulnerability.
In a statement issued by Solomon Mwampikita, CTPD’s Lead Researcher for Land, Environment and Climate Change, the organisation said the strategy represents a vital step towards aligning Zambia’s development pathway with the National Green Growth Strategy.
“The Ministry’s acknowledgement of the charcoal crisis is commendable. Transitioning away from unsustainable charcoal production is essential for building climate resilience, safeguarding public health, and ensuring long-term economic stability,” Mr Mwampikita noted.
However, CTPD emphasised that the success of the strategy will depend on the government’s ability to tackle the socio-economic drivers behind charcoal production.
Key challenges highlighted include:
- High cost of clean energy alternatives:
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and electricity remain financially out of reach for many low-income households. CTPD is calling for subsidies, tax incentives, and innovative financing models to make clean cooking technologies more accessible. - Dependence on charcoal for rural livelihoods:
Many rural families rely on charcoal production as a survival mechanism, especially during droughts or poor harvests. The strategy must therefore integrate viable income alternatives such as beekeeping, climate-smart agriculture, community forestry, and other green livelihood opportunities. - Weak enforcement mechanisms:
Previous reforms have been undermined by poor enforcement within the Forest Department and across the charcoal supply chain. Strengthened governance, transparency, and action against illicit activities are essential for meaningful progress.
CTPD further urged the MGECC to ensure that the final strategy incorporates gender-responsive budgeting, inter-ministerial collaboration, phased implementation, and strong community participation.
“We stand ready to offer technical support and evidence-based analysis to ensure the strategy is equitable and effective in protecting Zambia’s forests for generations to come,” Mr Mwampikita added.
