A Solwezi-based member of the Farmers Development Cooperative Union (FDCU) has urged citizens with a visionary business mindset to venture into charcoal briquette manufacturing due to a ready market at Kansanshi Mine.
Judith Mulemba of the Kapijimpanga Cooperative, affiliated with FDCU, said other clubs, such as Mapopo Women’s Club, Kakombe Women Club, and Mushitala Village Banking Club, are taking up the opportunity.
Ms. Mulemba explained that the Green Charcoal Project aims to prevent deforestation despite climate change.
“To avoid cutting down trees, they have developed a concept using leaves, grass, maize shells, and bean shells to make charcoal briquettes,” Ms. Mulemba said.
Ms. Mulemba mentioned that green charcoal is performing well in the market.
She acknowledged the challenge of stopping traditional charcoal production immediately because many people rely on it for their livelihoods.
By Elizabeth Mutale
