adminSifelani Tsiko Senior Writer
Zimbabwe needs to develop a comprehensive bio-fuels policy to help the country cut its huge fuel import bill and enhance access for the majority of rural people to renewable energy sources, a senior Government official says.
Energy and Power Development Permanent Secretary Mr Patson Mbiriri said this at a ceremony to commission a jatropha processing centre at Nyamuyaruka business centre in Mudzi district last week.
“It is important to realise that a successful bio-diesel programme has to be anchored on a comprehensive biofuels policy, properly researched agronomic practices and development of products that would not only benefit the transport industry but also the rural community livelihoods,” he said.
“The development of a comprehensive national biofuels policy and strategy is a precondition for sustainable biofuel investments.”
Mr Mbiriri said the development of biofuels was one of the key policy objectives of government under the National Energy Policy.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter