Green Pioneer: Mr Mukumbuta's Biogas Journey, A Climate-Resilient Path for Western Zambia

As reported by UNDP, Zambia grapples with the adverse effects of climate change, experiencing rising temperatures, shifting precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events. Agriculture, which comprises 18-20% of Zambia's GDP according to Zambian Ministry of Agriculture, and employs two-thirds of its labour force, is a cornerstone of livelihoods for 50% of Zambia's population. However, Central, Southern, and Western provinces endured heightened vulnerability to drought and erratic rainfall over the past two decades, leading to food insecurity.

Our Biogas Technology Project emerges as a beacon of resilience in Western Province, where climate change impacts have been particularly pronounced. Notably, only 4.4% of Zambia's rural population has access to electricity. Thus, most Zambians rely on traditional biomass fuel sources, contributing to deforestation and adverse health effects, especially for women and girls.

Mr Misheck Mukumbuta, a resident of Mungongo village in Nalolo District, exemplifies the transformative power of our Biogas Project. In just seven months, he has seamlessly integrated biogas into his household, revolutionising his cooking methods and converting bio-slurry into a profitable venture that benefits neighbouring farmers.

Harnessing organic waste from cattle, Mr Mukumbuta's biogas plant produces gas for cooking and lighting, eliminating the need for cutting down trees for charcoal. Bio slurry—a by-product of biogas—is an organic fertiliser revitalising the sandy soil of Mongu. It has become a valuable commodity for Mr Mukumbuta, who dries and resells it to other farmers, generating extra income.

A recent Monitoring Visit coordinated by PIN Zambia, the Embassy of the Czech Republic, and led by Milan Kalcu, delved into transformative projects focusing on biogas technology and improving nutrition and food security. Mr Mukumbuta, an advocate for sustainable practices, emphasised the environmental benefits of biogas technology, urging fellow farmers to embrace this innovative approach.

As Zambia grapples with the multifaceted challenges of climate change, our Biogas Project stands as a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives in building resilience, preserving natural resources, and fostering sustainable livelihoods. Mr Mukumbuta's success story symbolises a promising future for Western Province and a resilient response to the problems posed by climate change.