Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises complete transformative capacity enhancement training to drive Zambia’s clean energy future
40 MSMEs from Eastern Province completed a three-day UN Joint SDG Fund training to boost renewable energy adoption in Zambia. The programme, led by ILO, UNDP, and UNICEF, equipped participants with skills to innovate, grow businesses, and promote inclusive green energy solutions.
11 December 2025
Chipata, ZAMBIA (ILO News) – Forty Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) involved in renewable energy initiatives, enterprises, and alternative energy products trading from Mambwe, Lundazi, Petauke, and Chipata districts have successfully completed a three-day intensive training under the United Nations (UN) Joint Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Fund project titled: Accelerating Deployment and Adoption of Renewable Energy Technologies in Zambia.
The project, which is being implemented from January to December 2025, is jointly implemented by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), marks a major milestone in Zambia’s journey toward a sustainable and inclusive green energy future.
The training was a contribution towards strengthening the capacity of MSMEs within the renewable energy value chain, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to improve productivity, foster innovation, and enhance competitiveness.
A strong emphasis was placed on inclusive participation, ensuring that women, youth, and persons with disabilities are actively engaged in shaping Zambia’s green economy.
Mirriam Lungu, Secretary of Kambila Co-operative in Chipata District, expressed her gratitude for the training, describing it as both insightful and enriching.
Ms. Lungu, whose co-operative operates a solar-powered hammer mill in Sokochimwala Village under Chief Maguya, shared that she plans to pass on the entrepreneurship skills gained during the sessions to fellow members.
Her goal is to help the co-operative grow its business and strengthen its role in the renewable energy sector.
“This training opened my eyes to the business opportunities in renewable energy. I now understand how to structure our enterprise for growth and attract financing,” she said. “The emphasis on inclusivity was inspiring. As a woman entrepreneur, I feel more confident that I can succeed in the renewable energy space.”
Dennis Tembo, Chairperson of Kawizye Co-operative in Mambwe District, shared how the training transformed his understanding of renewable energy.
Before attending, Mr. Tembo admitted he had little knowledge about alternative energy sources.
His co-operative, which focuses on gardening and poultry farming, now plans to integrate renewable energy solutions into its operations.
“I never imagined renewable energy could help our business grow. With solar incubators, we can hatch more chicks and reduce costs,” he said. “This training has given me a new perspective. Renewable energy is the future, and I want to be part of that change.”
Kelvin Zulu, representing Petauke’s New Apostolic Churches Relief Organisation (NACRO) Biogas Project, highlighted how the training created a platform to showcase their innovative biogas initiative and learn from others.
Mr. Zulu shared that plans are underway to expand the project across Eastern Province, leveraging the knowledge and networks gained during the sessions.
“Networking with other MSMEs and financial institutions was a game-changer. I now have contacts that can help us access credit for our business,” he said.
Emmanuel Mwansa, who runs a renewable energy products shop in Lundazi, shared how the training equipped him with entrepreneurship skills to expand his business.
He explained that the sessions opened his mind to new opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
“This training opened my eyes to new possibilities. Renewable energy is not just for big businesses— it’s for all of us. I can now stock solar-powered tools and reduce my reliance on expensive fuel generators,” Mr. Mwansa said. “The practical demonstrations gave me confidence. I am ready to invest in solar technology and make my workshop more efficient.”
Christopher Mbewe, Chairperson of Munyeku Charcoal Briquette Co-operative in Chipata, emphasized that the training highlighted the importance of conserving the environment through renewable energy initiatives.
He explained that the sessions equipped him with practical skills to grow the charcoal briquette business across Eastern Province using digital tools.
“Before this programme, we struggled to see how digital tools could help our business. Now, I am using apps to track sales and manage inventory more efficiently,” Mr. Mbewe said.
