Antony Chawagarira
Chisumbanje — An eight-member United Nations delegation recently toured the Green Fuel Ethanol Factory in the South Eastern Lowveld, placing Zimbabwe’s flagship renewable energy project at the centre of its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term.
The delegation, comprising Permanent Representatives from countries including Austria, Liberia, Vanuatu, Portugal, Trinidad and Tobago and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is in Zimbabwe on a five-day familiarisation tour aimed at assessing the country’s readiness to represent regional interests at the global level.
During the visit to the ethanol production facility in Chisumbanje, the envoys toured various sections of the plant and were briefed on ethanol production processes, sugarcane value chains and the project’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s energy security. Officials explained that the project plays a significant role in reducing fuel imports while creating employment and supporting rural industrialisation in the Lowveld.Speaking during the tour, Ambassador Neil Parsan of Trinidad and Tobago commended the scale and impact of the Green Fuel initiative, saying it demonstrated how strategic investments in renewable energy can transform local communities.
“What we have witnessed here at Green Fuel is an impressive example of how renewable energy projects can drive economic growth while uplifting communities. This kind of innovation speaks to the importance of sustainable development in today’s global environment,” he said.
Also sharing his impressions, Mr. Lewis Brown II of Liberia said the visit provided valuable insight into Zimbabwe’s industrial capabilities and commitment to energy security.”The integration of agriculture and energy production here is remarkable. It shows how countries can leverage their natural resources to create sustainable industries that benefit both the economy and the people,” he said.Meanwhile, Ambassador Odo Tevi of Vanuatu said the project highlighted Zimbabwe’s determination to pursue environmentally friendly development models aligned with global climate goals.”Projects like this demonstrate the potential of renewable energy to support national development while protecting the environment. It is encouraging to see such forward-thinking initiatives being implemented,” he said.
The Green Fuel project was highlighted as a model of sustainable development and innovation, demonstrating Zimbabwe’s commitment to renewable energy solutions that contribute to economic growth and environmental sustainability. Government officials said showcasing the plant was strategic, as it reflects the country’s drive towards self-sufficiency and resilience in key sectors.
So far, the visiting delegation has toured several strategic institutions and national facilities, including the Zimbabwe National Defence University and the SADC Regional Peacekeeping Training Centre, where they gained insight into Zimbabwe’s role in regional and international peace support operations.
The envoys also visited the Tongogara Refugee Settlement, where they interacted with refugees and asylum seekers benefiting from empowerment programmes aligned with the Global Compact on Refugees. The settlement hosts close to 12 000 refugees and asylum seekers engaged in livelihood, education and community development initiatives.
Earlier in the programme, the delegation met President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who briefed them on Zimbabwe’s commitment to peace, stability and multilateral cooperation as the country intensifies its campaign for a seat on the UN Security Council.The delegation is also expected to tour key heritage and tourism destinations, including the Great Zimbabwe Monument and the Victoria Falls, as part of efforts to give them a broader appreciation of the country’s cultural heritage and tourism potential.
Government officials said the familiarisation tour is designed to provide firsthand exposure to Zimbabwe’s peaceful environment, industrial capacity and tourism assets, while strengthening international confidence in the country’s suitability to serve on the UN Security Council for the 2027–2028 term.
