Staff Writer
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mr Edward Kallon says Zimbabwe stands at a crucial juncture with the opportunity to embrace renewable energy as a cornerstone for its transition towards a green economy.
In his remarks in Victoria Falls today at the Zimbabwe Joint SDGs Fund Programme at the Renewable Energy Conference, Mr Kallon saidthe benefits of renewable energy extend beyond environmental sustainability.
“By embracing clean, renewable sources of power, we can enhance energy security, stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life for millions of people across Zimbabwe,” Mr Kallon said.
“By aligning our efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals, we ensure that our actions leave a legacy of progress and prosperity for future generations. Investing in renewable energy not only protects the environment but also establishes a foundation for a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous society for present and future generations.”
He said catalyzing investments in Sustainable Energy require more than just investing in infrastructure.
“It necessitates a structural transformation, commencing with changing people’s attitudes, values, and behaviors for long-term change.
“For investments in this realm to be sustainable and impactful, citizens themselves must become change agents at the forefront of shaping the future of their society and economy.
“Through capacity-building initiatives under the UN Joint Programme, in support of the Government, we aim to empower citizens to steer change and transformation towards socially equitable, ecologically sustainable, and economically viable ways in the long term.
“This will encourage broader social transformation, spawn new development models, and foster more sustainable economic and financial dynamics,” he said.
Furthermore, he said, by promoting women’s involvement not solely as end-users or beneficiaries but also in prominent roles within RE enterprises and the value chain of RE companies, the Joint Programme would pave the way for transforming socio-economic norms around women’s participation.
He said the global climate crisis disproportionately affects developing countries, including Zimbabwe, risking lives, livelihoods, and the environment.
“By transitioning to renewable energy, Zimbabwe can not only mitigate the impacts of climate change but also propel itself into a future of advancement and prosperity.
“This transition aligns with your national vision for 2030, aiming to become an upper middle-income society,” he said.
About Author
