HH challenges Private Sector to invest in alternative energy

By Masauso Mkwayaya

President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has challenged the private sector to seize investment opportunities in alternative energy sources and smart agriculture.

President HICHILEMA says climate change has caused food and energy insecurity but has also presented opportunities for investment.

In a keynote speech during the third Public Private Dialogue Forum-PPDF- Private Sector Day in Lusaka, the President urged businesses to take the lead in investing in initiatives that enhance resilience against climate change.

And the President has called for the adoption of good agricultural practices that boost yields while protecting the environment.

He said the investments should also include skills development for young people in areas such as basic agriculture, plumbing, and carpentry, which are critical to the economy.

The President said these specialised skills should support sustainable food production and economic development.

And President HICHILEMA has urged the private sector to collaborate in establishing a second pipeline to enable the country to transport all its petroleum needs through the pipeline, which is a more cost-effective option than road transport.

And President HICHILEMA said technology must become a standard part of daily operations in all sectors.

President HICHILEMA has commended the PPDF  for bringing together talent from various sectors to address some of the country’s challenges.

Earlier, Public Private Dialogue Forum -PPDF- Director General ANDREW CHIPWENDE revealed that 87 issues were raised by the forum, of which 30 have been adopted and implemented by the public sector.

Mr. CHIPWENDE assured that the PPDF will continue to engage the public sector to address the remaining issues.

The third PPDF Forum was held under the theme, “Embracing Sustainability: Unlocking Economic Opportunities in the Face of Climate Change.”