Q&A: Climate leaders with answers

Michael Sakala is the energy lead at World Wide Fund and a leading member of Zambian Electric Mobility and Innovation Alliance.

Q: What are the main challenges for Zambia’s green transition? A: I would say government policies and financing. The politicians are focused on short-term goals. After every election, changes in the government impact the implementation of energy adoption policies.

Q: Is electric mobility making progress? A: At the end of 2023, we had only 94 registered electric two-wheelers. We have a long way to go. However, the government has partnered with UNEP to fund electric buses for public transport. 

Q: That’s heading in the right direction then, no? A: The green economy in Zambia is struggling. There are no distinct regulations, so investors think the environment is not conducive.

Q: What worries you most? A: We rely heavily on hydroelectric power from Kariba Dam, and climate change has reduced water levels. Yet the government still thinks that hydropower is the only solution. We are over-reliant on one source, even if it’s a good one.

Q: So the government is lagging? A: We note increases in deforestation and use of charcoal as a source of energy for cooking, even in hospitals and schools, despite knowing of alternative sources.