Aspiring Member of Parliament for Matero Constituency, Moffat Sinyangwe, says the current electricity crisis, characterized by prolonged periods of load shedding, is having profound and far-reaching negative effects on the environment.
Mr. Sinyangwe says the increased reliance on unsustainable energy sources, particularly charcoal, is increasing deforestation and contributing to climate change.
“As Zambians turn to charcoal as an alternative fuel during electricity shortages,” he said, the forests are being depleted at an alarming rate.
Mr. Sinyangwe said in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today that the reliance on charcoal and other unsustainable energy sources also deepens poverty and hardship in communities, creating a vicious cycle.
“As trees are cleared, local ecosystems suffer, leading to long-term consequences for both the environment and the livelihoods of those who depend on natural resources,” said Mr. Sinyangwe.
He has therefore urged the Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, to take immediate and decisive action in resolving the electricity crisis.
Delays in addressing the load-shading issue will only prolong the negative effects on both the environment and the livelihoods of our people,” said Mr. Sinyangwe.
RCV News
