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The University of Zambia (UNZA) has reaffirmed its commitment to driving the nation’s energy transition through cutting-edge research, innovation, and human capital development.
UNZA Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mundia Muya, emphasized that Zambia’s evolving energy landscape required more than physical infrastructure, and that it demands a highly skilled workforce and evidence-based policymaking.
His remarks came ahead of the inaugural Zambia Annual Renewable Energy Conference (ZERECON), organized by the Zambia Renewable Energy Association (ZARENA), scheduled for March 2026.
Speaking at the launch of ZERECON 2026 on Wednesday in Lusaka themed “Powering Zambia’s Future: Pioneering Policy Innovation and Partnership for Energy Security – From Policy to Action”, Muya underscored the vital role of academia in shaping sustainable energy solutions.
“To achieve Zambia’s national development priorities, energy solutions must be guided by rigorous academic inquiry that responds to local realities while meeting global standards. Through this conference, UNZA aims to provide academic leadership, technological credibility, and the nexus of innovation,” he said.
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He highlighted the university’s ongoing contribution to climate resilience and inclusive development, noting that higher education institutions played a central role in shaping national outcomes.
“UNZA remains a trusted source of knowledge. We encourage our postgraduate students and seasoned researchers to use this platform to showcase innovation, ensuring that Zambia’s energy journey is productive, resilient, and sustainable for future generations,” he added.
Muya also stressed the importance of collaboration between academia and industry.
Officiating at the event, Energy Minister, Makozo Chikote, highlighted energy as the foundation for economic growth, industrial expansion, and societal prosperity.
In a speech delivered by Assistant Director Brian Mainza, he noted that the demand for reliable, affordable, and sustainable power was increasing rapidly, driven by population growth, industrialization, mining expansion, urbanization, and the need for economic diversification.
“We stand at a pivotal moment. The decisions we make today in energy planning, infrastructure investment, and technology adoption will determine Zambia’s economic competitiveness, resilience to climate shocks, and capacity for inclusive development for decades to come,” Chikote said.
ZARENA Vice-Chairman, Michael Tarney, described the conference as a strategic convening platform, bringing together government officials, regulators, industry leaders, financiers, universities, research institutions, development partners, and the media.
“Its purpose is to facilitate informed, forward-looking dialogue that strengthens decision-making across the energy sector,” Tarney stated.
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