Sundaymail Editor
Online Reporter
Zimbabwe will gradually phase out coal-fired power stations in a manner that takes into consideration the country’s level of economic development, including the need to reduce energy poverty, Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu said on Wednesday.
Addressing the pre-United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 27) Climate Change Stakeholder Workshop in Harare, Minister Ndlovu said although the country is dedicated to reducing carbon emissions, there is need to strike a balance of the country’s energy needs.
“Whilst Zimbabwe is joining the rest of the world in cutting emissions, it is well aware of the impact of the global actions such as the phase-out of coal-fired power stations on its economy.
“The country calls for a gradual phase-out that takes into consideration our levels of economic development, the need to reduce energy poverty and time for communities and economic systems to adjust,” he said.
The multi-stakeholder workshop deliberated on climate change issues ahead of COP 27, which will take place in Egypt from November 6 to November 10.
Online Reporter