At a ceremony to sign partnership agreements for the implementation of the Mpanda Nkuwa project, government authorities met to lay the foundations for an ambitious project aimed at the sustainable development of renewable energy in Mozambique. The French Secretary of State for Development, Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, who was recently in Dubai discussing climate issues, stressed the importance of global commitment to tackling climate change.
In an inspiring speech, Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, recalled the need to support nations that, although crucial in gas production and reserves, have limited national resources to finance significant climate action. This meeting, marked by the announcement of an exceptional contribution from France of 173 million euros, to solidify the financial and technical commitment to boost sustainable initiatives in Mozambique.
France, alongside the European Union, has stood out as one of the main defenders of the climate cause, representing more than 10% of global efforts in the area of climate finance. This contribution becomes even more significant when you consider that the French nation accounts for less than 3% of historical greenhouse gas emissions.
The practical actions of this commitment are evident in previous projects in which France has invested substantially in Mozambique. The recovery of renewable energy production capacities, reaching the 2,400 megawatt mark, is a notable achievement. Projects such as the Solar and Air Center, the rehabilitation of the Cahora Bassa hydroelectric dam and the construction of the country’s 2nd Solar Power Plant, highlight Franco-Mozambican collaboration for innovative and sustainable solutions.
The current partnership to lead strategic renewable energy projects promises to broaden Mozambique’s horizons in the energy sector. EDF, together with Sumitomo Corporation and other partners, are committed to playing a key role in the execution of the Mphanda Nkuwa project, which aims to substantially increase power generation capacity and provide electricity to all Mozambicans by 2030.
The project, however, is in its early stages, and detailed studies and the mobilization of significant financial resources will be required. In this context, France is seeking support from institutional backers, including Team Europe, China and the European Union. The promise of success in this endeavor reinforces the strategic vision, not only for Mozambique, but also for strengthening the Euro-African axis.
This project represents not only an effort to tackle the current climate crisis, but a significant step towards development for the progress of the planet as a whole.
