Online Reporter
Judith Phiri in Victoria Falls
THE Ambassador of the Republic of India to the Republic of Zimbabwe, Bramha Kumar has called on other countries to learn from India’s own energy transition that has demonstrated how sustained emission can be achieved in as little as over a decade.
Speaking at the 8th Meeting of the ISA Regional Committee for the Africa Region Official Opening Ceremony in Victoria Falls on Wednesday, the Ambassador said India’s engagement with the world has long been guided by the belief that knowledge acquires its greatest value when shared for the common good.
“The International Solar Alliance (ISA), co-founded by India and France, carries that spirit forward through climate action, energy access and partnership with the global south. India’s own energy transition demonstrates that sustained emission can be achieved in as little as over a decade,” he said
“India’s installed solar capacity has risen from less than three gigawatts to more than 164 gigawatts, while its non-profit capacity has crossed 300 gigawatts. India also became the first independent country to achieve two of the three quantitative commitments under its original nationally determined contribution nine years ahead of Zimbabwe.”
He sais for India, Africa is an equal and indispensable partner, while during India’s G20 presidency, the African Union became a permanent member of the G20, strengthening Africa’s rightful voice in global decision-making.
Ambassador Kumar said the ISA was honoured by the presence of Commissioner Mataboge and sincerely hope that the African Union-ISA partnership can be formally taken forward in the 9th ISA assembly later this year.
“Across Africa, solar energy must ultimately illuminate homes, strengthen schools and health centres, power farms and enterprises, and create dignified livelihoods.
‘India offers its experience in a spirit of partnership as a resource for co-creating solutions shaped by Africa’s priorities and diverse international contacts,” he added.
“We hope that ISA’s Solarising Africa initiative will emerge as a continental platform that convenes partners, mobilises finance and translates ambition into implementation. On India-Zimbabwe bilateral partnership, I am pleased to state that Indian industries are growing and enhancing their investments in Zimbabwe and
expanding their operations.”
He said they have seen one of India’s prominent investors who are into fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), now moving into solar energy, congratulating Varun Beverages.
Ambassador Kumar also invited delegates to the of Bharat Bio Energy Association (BBEA).
He conveyed his sincere appreciation to the Government and people of Zimbabwe for graciously hosting the important meeting and for the warmth and hospitality extended to all delegates who are coming from India and all over the world.
