Chigubhu Lantern Initiative

Zimbabwe’s transition to sustainable and inclusive energy systems requires coordinated investment in green skills, STEM capability and locally appropriate renewable energy solutions. The ongoing upscaling of the Chigubhu Lantern initiative in Beitbridge, Chipinge and Mangwe demonstrates how youth-led innovation can expand clean energy access while strengthening climate resilience and livelihoods in marginalised communities through the Climate Action for the Last Mile (CALM project). 

By integrating practical STEM learning with community-based renewable energy deployment, the programme contributes to national priorities on climate action, rural development, youth empowerment and the just energy transition. It also illustrates the importance of scalable, locally manufactured solutions that address energy poverty while building a pipeline of adolescents and young people equipped with future-ready green skills.

We acknowledge and appreciate the strategic leadership and partnership supporting this scale-up:

Ministry of Local Government and Public Works

Ministry of Environment, Climate and Wildlife 

Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Zimbabwe - 주 짐바브웨 대한민국 대사관

UNICEF Zimbabwe

Zambezi Ark Technologies

This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing inclusive climate solutions, strengthening community resilience and enabling young people to play a central role in Zimbabwe’s sustainable development trajectory.