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Catholic Church in Zambia Joins Partnership to Boost Parishes with Sustainable Energy and Clean Cooking Solutions

Photo courtesy of the Center for Pollinators in Energy.

The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has partnered with GEI Power Limited, a Zambian Energy Company dealing with sustainable renewable energy projects, to promote sustainable energy and ‘clean cooking solutions” across Catholic institutions and parishes in the country.

In a memo dated Tuesday, November 5, the Bishops say that the partnership that seeks to promote clean energy in Catholic institutions and parishes is in line with Pope Francis 2015 Encyclical Letter, Laudato Si’, where “the Holy Father discusses moral implications of environmental degradation.”

“We are pleased to announce a significant partnership with GEI Power Limited that will benefit our Catholic parishes, schools, and affiliated institutions with sustainable energy and clean cooking solutions,” ZCCB members say.

Based on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the Bishops’ National Communications office and the company on 15 June 2023, the Bishops highlight the benefits that Catholic institutions and parishes will receive from the partnership.

Concessional Solar Energy Solutions

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The MOU stipulates that Catholic institutions will have access to discounted solar energy systems with flexible payment options and dedicated after-sales support to ensure reliable, clean energy.

“GEI Power Limited is offering a special concessional pricing package on Solar Home Systems for all Catholic institutions,” the Catholic Bishops in Zambia say in the memo addressed to all Catholic Parishes, Schools, and Affiliated Institutions.

They add, “This offer is part of GEI Power’s commitment to enhance our community’s transition to clean and reliable energy, supporting the operations of our parishes, schools, and other institutions.”

The Bishops further highlight that the concessional package includes discounted pricing to make solar energy more accessible, as well as flexible payment plans that allow investment costs to be spread comfortably over time.

The Bishops also note that the package will include comprehensive support, providing assistance with installation and dedicated “after-sales service to ensure optimal system performance.”

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Clean Cooking Initiatives

GEI Power Limited has offered the Mbaula Ya Mphamvu stove, a clean cooking solution designed as a direct alternative to charcoal.

“This stove uses methanol, a clean-burning fuel that helps reduce deforestation. As part of this initiative, the distribution and sale of the Mbaula Ya Mphamvu have also been extended to the Catholic Church, with the youth from our community actively involved in sales and distribution,” the Bishops say.

They add, “A set commission is given to the youth involved in these sales. This approach not only promotes clean cooking but also empowers our youth and supports parish activities.”

Empowerment and Skills Transfer Programs

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According to the memo, GEI Power is “committed to empowering youth within the Catholic community by implementing a skills transfer program for students in Catholic universities, trade schools, and colleges with a focus on electrical courses.”

“This program provides hands-on training in solar installation, equipping students with practical skills that can open up employment opportunities,” ZCCB members say, adding, “This initiative will enhance expertise and empower the youth by creating job prospects within our community.”

Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.