ZAMBIANS MUST EMBRACE ENERGY EFFICIENCY

BUSINESS FOCUS WITH BALEWA ZYUULU

For a long time, the Kariba Dam was like a huge wonder that people liked to see. It made electricity for Zambia, Zimbabwe, and more places. People came to look at it and take pictures. But now, something’s not right. It’s not as full as before.

The problem is a big lack of rain, called a drought. It’s making everything dry. The Kariba Dam, once so full and powerful, now looks sad and empty.

But don’t worry too much. People in Zimbabwe and Zambia are trying to stay hopeful. They’re saying things like, “We’ll be okay even without so much water. We’ve got plenty of sunshine!”

Other countries nearby are watching and feeling sorry, but also a bit relieved. They’re thinking, “At least it’s not us this time!”

The animals that used to swim in the dam are struggling too. Some are trying funny things like wearing snorkels and flippers to find water. It’s tough out there.

People are talking about ways to fix the problem. They’re trying things like making fake rain and doing special dances. But for now, the Kariba Dam is just a reminder that nature is stronger than us. We can build big things, but we can’t control everything. Sometimes, we just have to deal with what nature gives us.

The Kariba Dam, once a symbol of power and progress, now mirrors the nation’s struggle as its waters dwindle, and with it, the hopes of millions.

Energy Minister Peter Kapala revealed a sobering truth recently. He said it might take a whopping five years of really good rainfall to bring the Kariba Dam back to its old self. He shared this news while talking to journalists that were taken to see firsthand how bad the drought has hit the Kariba Dam in Siavonga and the Kafue Gorge Lower area.

It’s a bit of a reality check. The Kariba Dam, once a pride of the region, isn’t bouncing back anytime soon. Kapala’s words hit hard, highlighting the serious impact of the drought on such a vital water source.

Seeing is believing, they say. So, Mr Kapala took the journalists on a tour, showing them the dry spell’s devastating effects up close. It’s not a pretty sight. The water levels are way down, and the dam looks nothing like its old self. It’s a stark reminder of the power of nature and how fragile our control over it can be.

So, what’s the solution? Well, according to Mr Kapala, there is a need for a whole lot of rain – five years’ worth, to be precise. That’s a tall order, considering the unpredictability of weather patterns. But it’s a reminder that sometimes, all we can do is hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

Mr Kapala’s disclosure is a wake-up call for everyone. It’s time to take climate change seriously and start thinking about long-term solutions. Because if it takes five years of rain to fix the Kariba Dam, who knows what other challenges lie ahead?

With each passing day of the dry spell, Zambia inches closer to the precipice of darkness, a fate that could plunge communities into uncertainty and stifle economic growth.

However, amidst the gloom, rays of hope emerge as the government adopts a better approach to tackle the crisis head-on. Mr Kapala’s call for a diversified energy mix signals a departure from reliance on hydroelectricity alone. Nuclear energy, waste-to-energy conversion, and diesel generators are being explored as viable alternatives, promising a more resilient and sustainable future.

But the battle for energy sustainability extends beyond policy corridors and ministerial briefings; it is fought in the fields of agriculture, where Water Development and Sanitation Minister Mike Mposha’s voice rings loud and clear. His plea for efficient water usage echoes across the countryside, urging farmers to embrace modern irrigation techniques and shun wasteful practices.

In a nation where water and energy are inextricably linked, every drop saved is a step towards resilience. Mr Mposha’s emphasis on drip irrigation as a solution not only conserves water but also preserves precious energy resources, aligning with the broader goal of sustainability.

Yet, the path forward is not without its challenges. Changing age-old habits and embracing innovation requires a concerted effort from all corners of society. From urban households to rural farms, every Zambian must play a part in the journey towards energy efficiency.

As the sun sets on another day in Zambia, the nation stands at a critical juncture, poised between darkness and dawn. The choices made today will shape the energy landscape for generations to come. Will Zambia rise to the challenge, harnessing the power of innovation and conservation to illuminate its path forward? I firmly believe that it will because the crisis has a way of making humanity wiser.

In the face of adversity, Zambia’s resilience shines bright, a beacon of hope in a world grappling with the complexities of climate change and resource scarcity. With unwavering determination and collective action, the nation stands ready to overcome its energy dilemma, forging a future where light shines not just from the heavens above but from the hearts and minds of its people.

As the nation grapples with this environmental crisis, urgent calls for heightened energy efficiency have become imperative.

Recent years have witnessed a steady decline in water levels across Zambia’s reservoirs, particularly the iconic Kariba Dam. Once a cornerstone of Zambia’s energy production, the dam’s dwindling reservoir now stands at perilously low levels, raising alarms among experts and policymakers alike. The repercussions of this decline reverberate beyond energy concerns, posing serious challenges to agriculture, industry, and livelihoods dependent on water resources.

Experts warn that business-as-usual approaches are no longer tenable. The imperative to embrace energy efficiency has never been more urgent. With water scarcity becoming an increasingly pressing reality, the need to optimize energy usage is paramount. This entails not only upgrading infrastructure but also fostering a culture of conservation and sustainable practices across industries and households.

 Central to the drive towards energy efficiency is community empowerment. From rural villages to urban centers, initiatives promoting energy-conscious behavior are gaining momentum. Educational campaigns, incentivized programs, and technological innovations are equipping Zambians with the tools to reduce energy wastage and adapt to the evolving landscape of water scarcity.

In the face of adversity, Zambia’s resilience shines through innovative solutions. From decentralized renewable energy systems to smart grid technologies, investments in sustainable infrastructure hold the promise of a brighter future. Therefore, through harnessing the power of solar, wind, and other renewable sources, Zambia can diversify its energy portfolio while mitigating the impacts of water scarcity on traditional hydropower.

The challenges posed by dwindling water levels in the Kariba Dam and other reservoirs are undeniable. Yet, within these challenges lie opportunities for transformation. By embracing energy efficiency as a cornerstone of resilience, Zambia can navigate the complexities of water scarcity while laying the groundwork for a sustainable future.

During a drought, conserving energy becomes even more crucial as water scarcity often affects hydroelectric power generation. Here are some ways citizens can be energy-efficient during drought conditions:

Reduce Water Usage

 Saving water indirectly saves energy since water treatment and distribution require significant energy. Use water-efficient appliances, fix leaks promptly, and practice water-saving habits like shorter showers and turning off the tap when brushing teeth.

Limit Use of Appliances

Minimize the use of appliances that consume a lot of water, such as washing machines and dishwashers. When you do use them, make sure to run full loads to maximize efficiency.

Adjust Thermostat

Set your thermostat a few degrees higher in summer to reduce energy use for cooling. Use fans to circulate air instead of relying solely on air conditioning.

Seal Drafts: Ensure your home is properly insulated and sealed to prevent air leaks, which can reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling systems.

Use Energy-Efficient Lighting

Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs or CFLs, which use less energy and produce less heat.

Unplug Electronics

Many electronic devices consume energy even when turned off. Unplug chargers, appliances, and electronics when not in use, or use power strips to easily disconnect multiple devices at once.

Optimize Refrigeration

 Keep your refrigerator and freezer well-organized to maximize airflow and minimize energy consumption. Check and maintain the seals to ensure they are airtight.

Reduce Hot Water Usage

Heating water requires energy, so take shorter showers and wash clothes in cold water when possible. Install low-flow showerheads and faucets to further reduce hot water usage.

Cook Efficiently

Use small appliances like microwaves and toaster ovens for cooking, as they use less energy than larger appliances like ovens and stoves. Also, cover pots and pans to retain heat and reduce cooking time.

Energy-Efficient Transportation

Reduce the use of personal vehicles by carpooling, using public transportation, biking, or walking. Consider purchasing a fuel-efficient or electric vehicle if possible.

Educate and Advocate

Spread awareness about the importance of energy efficiency during droughts and encourage others to adopt energy-saving practices. Support policies and initiatives that promote renewable energy and conservation efforts.

By adopting these energy-saving practices, citizens can contribute to reducing energy demand during drought conditions and help alleviate pressure on energy resources.

The Author is an Economist and a multiple international Award winning journalist.