Chipo Murombedzi, a Zimbabwean entrepreneur, is making significant strides in the renewable energy sector. As the founder of Amandla Elanga Renewables, she is pioneering innovative solutions to harness Zimbabwe’s abundant renewable energy resources.
One of Murombedzi’s key projects is a 20MWp solar farm in Bindura, which will provide clean energy to thousands of people in Zimbabwe. This initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions while contributing to environmental preservation—goals that align perfectly with the focus of the ongoing COP29 conference in Baku, Azerbaijan.
COP29: A Global Focus on Climate Finance and Clean Energy Transition
COP29, also known as the “Finance COP,” is focused on scaling up climate finance, strengthening national climate action plans, and accelerating the transition to clean energy. This year’s conference aims to establish a new, collective quantified goal for climate finance that addresses the needs of developing countries.
The Conference of the Parties (COP) is a critical global event that brings together world leaders, governments, businesses, and civil society to address the pressing issue of climate change. Convened annually since 1995 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the summit seeks to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations, mitigate climate change impacts, and promote sustainable development. Past agreements, such as the Kyoto Protocol (COP3) and the Paris Agreement (COP21), laid the foundation for global climate action.
Climate change continues to intensify extreme weather events, with 2024 projected to be the hottest year on record. Rising global temperatures are displacing communities through floods, hurricanes, droughts, and other catastrophic events, with the economic toll growing at an alarming rate.
In this context, COP29 aims to accelerate global progress toward limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Key objectives include increasing climate finance to support lower-income countries in their transition to zero-carbon economies and helping the most affected communities adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Supporting Renewable Energy Initiatives
The targeted trillions of dollars in climate finance could have a profound impact on supporting startups and innovators focused on sustainable technologies. Murombedzi’s solar farm project is an example of the kinds of initiatives that should be prioritized for funding at COP29. By reducing carbon emissions and contributing to environmental preservation, such projects are key to the transition to a low-carbon economy.
As Murombedzi stated in a LinkedIn post: “Zimbabwe urgently needs investment in alternative sources of renewable energy… the development of solar projects provides a clear opportunity to build a more resilient and sustainable energy future.”
Amandla Elanga Renewables: Transforming Zimbabwe’s Energy Landscape
Founded in 2021, Amandla Elanga Renewables is dedicated to transforming Africa’s energy landscape. The company designs, builds, and operates solar energy projects across Zimbabwe and beyond, focusing on providing sustainable solutions for local communities, businesses, and industries.
Murombedzi’s mission is to reduce Zimbabwe’s reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate climate change through innovative renewable energy solutions. “Our projects are designed to generate clean electricity while reducing carbon emissions,” she said. “We are committed to promoting economic growth, social welfare, and a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.”
A Vision Rooted in Personal Experience
Murombedzi’s journey into renewable energy was inspired by her childhood experiences in Zimbabwe. Growing up in a country plagued by frequent power outages, she developed a passion for finding solutions to energy challenges. This curiosity led her to pursue a master’s degree in engineering and a successful ten-year career in renewable energy in the United Kingdom.
Currently serving as Asset Manager at Cubico Sustainable Investments, Murombedzi oversees renewable energy projects, including a 52MW solar farm, the largest in the company’s UK portfolio. Building on this expertise, she founded Amandla Elanga Renewables, aiming to increase access to electricity, create local employment opportunities, and empower Zimbabwean communities.
The company’s mission is clear: “Amandla Elanga Renewables believes in a greener future that provides the people of Africa with clean, affordable electricity through renewable energy sources.”
The Bindura Solar Farm: A Key Step Toward Energy Sustainability
Murombedzi’s 20MWp solar farm project in Bindura aims to provide clean electricity to 10,600 homes, empowering local communities and businesses while addressing Zimbabwe’s energy needs. The project will significantly reduce carbon emissions, offsetting an estimated 32,461 tons of CO2 annually.
“By harnessing the power of the sun, our solar farm will contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future,” Murombedzi said. “Our vision is to create a future where renewable energy becomes a dominant power source, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change.”
This solar farm aligns with the goals of COP29 by reducing dependence on fossil fuels and promoting access to clean, renewable energy.
The Need for Increased Climate Finance
At COP29, it’s crucial to prioritize funding for projects like Murombedzi’s solar farm, which not only provide sustainable energy but also empower local communities. This type of funding will play a key role in driving a transformative shift toward a low-carbon economy, improving public health, creating jobs, and stimulating local economies.
By supporting renewable energy initiatives, COP29 can contribute to building a cleaner, more resilient energy future for Africa and the world.