Renewable energy pivotal to the achievement of SDGs

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Renewable energy is pivotal to the United Nations’ efforts in Zimbabwe, serving as a cornerstone for sustainable development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),  Mr. Edward Kallon, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator has said.

He made the remarks at the Renewable Energy Conference and Expo in Victoria Falls today.

“Renewable energy is pivotal to the United Nations’ efforts in Zimbabwe, serving as a cornerstone for sustainable development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“By promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources, the United Nations supports the Government of Zimbabwe in mitigating climate change, improving energy access, and driving socio-economic progress, thus furthering your government’s mission of establishing a more sustainable and equitable future for all Zimbabweans,” Mr. Kallon said.

The United Nations, in collaboration with the Government of Zimbabwe, is embarking on a pioneering initiative to spur investments in renewable energy. 

Together with national and international partners, the ‘Catalyzing Investments into Renewable Energy for the Acceleration of the Attainment of the SDGs in Zimbabwe’ project – an ambitious endeavor aimed at promoting sustainable development and advancing progress across the nation, was launched.

The flagship Project was jointly developed by the Ministry of Energy and Power Development and four partnering UN agencies: UNESCO (lead), UNDP, UNWOMEN, and UNCDF.

Central to this initiative is the establishment of a Renewable Energy Fund (REF), designed to mobilize resources and facilitate investments in renewable energy solutions across Zimbabwe. With an initial investment of $45 million, this fund signifies a concrete commitment to driving sustainable development and progress in the nation.

Old Mutual has been entrusted with managing the Renewable Energy Fund, leveraging its expertise and dedication to sustainable finance. There is a need to harness the power of partnerships to unlock the transformative potential of renewable energy and pave the way for a brighter future.