Zambia’s Green Energy Drive: Empowering Small Enterprises to Power the Future
Written By Maxine Ansah
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In Zambia’s Eastern Province, the seeds of a green energy revolution are being sown. A capacity enhancement meeting held in Chipata from 26 to 28 August 2025 has equipped government officials and technical staff with the tools and knowledge needed to empower Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the renewable energy sector. The initiative is part of a wider push to accelerate the adoption of clean technologies, stimulate economic growth, and strengthen community resilience across the country.
Organised by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security’s National Productivity Development Department in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), the training was hosted at Chipata’s Protea Hotel. It forms part of the United Nations Joint Sustainable Development Goals (JSDG) Fund Project, “Accelerating the Adoption and Deployment of Renewable Energy Technologies in Zambia,” which is jointly implemented by the ILO, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Running throughout 2025, the project aims to drive inclusive growth while contributing to Zambia’s national commitments on climate action.
The three-day meeting brought together representatives from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, the Eastern Provincial Planning Unit, and Technical Education, Vocational and Entrepreneurship Training (TEVET) institutions. Participants gained practical insights into improving MSME productivity, strengthening competitiveness, and fostering innovation.
For many, the experience was transformative. “This training has shown me how we can help MSMEs become more productive and competitive,” said Ms Mulenga Mutale, a Labour Inspector from Vubwi District. She described a renewed sense of duty to support entrepreneurs as key drivers of Zambia’s green economy. “With the right support, these enterprises are poised to deliver sustainable energy solutions, create jobs, and build resilient communities across Eastern Province and beyond.”
The programme also highlighted the role of education and technical training in shaping a sustainable future. Mr Francis Pelekelo, Principal at Lundazi Trades Training Institute, reflected on the importance of equipping young people with relevant skills. “I have always believed in the power of renewable energy, but I lacked the tools to teach it effectively. Now, I can help my students not only understand the technology but also see its potential to transform their communities.”
Participants expressed optimism about the collaborative approach fostered during the meeting. Ms Precious Mutema, Cooperative Entrepreneurship Officer from the Ministry of Small and Medium Enterprise Development in Petauke District, said she left the event inspired. “Meeting others who are passionate about renewable energy and learning from experts has given me confidence. I now see a future where MSMEs can grow and help communities. We have always supported MSMEs, but this programme helped me understand how renewable energy can be a catalyst for inclusive growth. I am excited to help entrepreneurs explore new opportunities.”
The importance of breaking institutional silos was also underscored. Ms Melody Mayamba, Planner from the Eastern Provincial Planning Unit, praised the development of joint strategies that bridge ministries and institutions. “Before this, we worked in silos. Now, we are talking about joint strategies and shared goals. That is powerful because these strategies will greatly contribute to environmental sustainability.”
She added that new tools introduced during the workshop will enable MSMEs to track environmental and social outcomes. “These tools will track both environmental and social outcomes—linking carbon credits to real-life benefits such as improved nutrition.” Ms Mayamba emphasised that the work being done aligns with Zambia’s broader ambitions. The initiatives contribute to the National Green Growth Strategy 2024-2030 and the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), both of which aim to achieve universal access to clean energy by 2030 and to cut carbon emissions.
As Zambia strives to transition towards a green economy, MSMEs are emerging as central players. By strengthening their capacity and providing the right institutional support, the country is laying the groundwork for an energy future that is not only sustainable but also inclusive and transformative.