Government, UN Announce Pioneering Renewable Energy Initiative in Zimbabwe at Renewable Energy Conference

Victoria Falls 01 March 2024 - At the fifth International Renewable Energy Conference held on Friday at the Elephant Hills Hotel in Victoria Falls coinciding with the Africa Ministers of Finance Conference (COM2024), Mr. Edward Kallon, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, outlined a groundbreaking initiative in collaboration with the Government of Zimbabwe. 

The United Nations, in partnership with the Government of Zimbabwe, launched the 'Catalyzing Investments into Renewable Energy for the Acceleration of the Attainment of the SDGs in Zimbabwe' project. This ambitious endeavor, developed in collaboration with key UN agencies (UNESCO – lead agency, UNDP, UN Women and UNCDF) and the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, aims to mobilize resources and investments in renewable energy solutions across Zimbabwe through the establishment of a Renewable Energy Fund.

Mr. Kallon expressed gratitude to the organizers and highlighted the crucial role of renewable energy in achieving sustainable development goals. He commended His Excellency, the President of Zimbabwe, for his dedication to promoting renewable energy initiatives, emphasizing its importance in elevating the nation's economy and advancing sustainable progress.

With an initial investment of US$45 million, supported by contributions from partners like Old Mutual and the SDGs Fund- Multi-Partner Trust Fund (US$10million), the project seeks to drive sustainable development, enhance energy access, and mitigate climate change in Zimbabwe. The Government's commitment to capitalizing the Renewable Energy Fund further underscores its dedication to advancing renewable energy initiatives.

Mr. Kallon emphasized that investing in renewable energy not only protects the environment but also stimulates economic growth, creates jobs, and improves the quality of life for Zimbabweans. Through capacity-building initiatives and promoting women's involvement in renewable energy enterprises, the project aims to empower women and girls, and foster sustainable economic dynamics.

The urgency of transitioning to renewable energy was highlighted in the context of addressing climate change challenges and advancing Zimbabwe's national vision for 2030. By embracing renewable energy as a cornerstone for a green economy, Zimbabwe can propel itself towards a future of advancement and prosperity.

Looking ahead, Mr. Kallon stressed the importance of an integrated policy approach, sustainable investment models, and effective means of implementation to expedite progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. He called for collaboration among stakeholders to accelerate Zimbabwe's transformation towards a sustainable trajectory, with renewable energy playing a central role.

Mr. Kallon reiterated the UN's commitment to supporting Zimbabwe in building a greener, more sustainable future, where renewable energy serves as a catalyst for development and transformation in the nation.