![Solar UNHR UNHCR Launches Solar Project in Zambian Refugee Settlements](https://trendsnafrica.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Solar-UNHR-640x298.jpg)
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The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) launched a solar photovoltaic project to increase access to electricity in refugee settlements in Zambia, improving the livelihoods of refugees and surrounding communities.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) launched a solar photovoltaic project to increase access to electricity in refugee settlements in Zambia, improving the livelihoods of refugees and surrounding communities. This initiative is a cooperation between the UNHCR and Zambia’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security. The project will provide a steady power supply to the refugee settlements and alleviate the challenges posed by frequent power outages Zambia is facing due to an electricity deficit.
The solarisation project is expected to benefit refugee settlements in Lusaka, the Zambian capital, Mantapala Refugee Settlement in the northern part of the country, and Meheba Refugee Settlement in the western part of the country. The challenges posed by frequent power outages have made it clear that one must seek innovative solutions that address immediate needs and pave the way for a more sustainable future, stated Preeta Law, UNHCR representative in Zambia.
This project is not just an investment in renewable energy, but an investment in human dignity and resilience, adding that it will give refugees and asylum seekers access to critical services such as health care, protection, and registration. The solarisation project also provides a reliable and cost-effective solution and minimises the reliance on diesel generators, thereby reducing the carbon footprint.
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Dickson Matembo, permanent secretary in Zambia’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, commended the UNHCR for its continued support of Zambia’s efforts to empower refugees and host communities. He said the project is in line with Zambia’s commitments under the Global Compact on Refugees adopted by the United Nations in 2018, which emphasises support for refugees and host communities.