By Jessica Bwali

The Africa Just Transition Network (AJTN), in partnership with Citizens Network for Community Development (CNCD), convened a two-day regional workshop in Lusaka aimed
at strengthening cross-border collaboration on a fair and people-centred transition from fossil fuels. Held at Reddy Conversion, the event brought together civil society leaders, community representatives, youth advocates, researchers, and partners from Zambia and Zimbabwe, all committed to shaping a shared pathway toward renewable energy and climate justice.

The workshop opened with remarks from the host organisations, setting the tone for regional cooperation and shared responsibility. Early sessions examined the meaning of a Just Transition in the African context, led by AJTN’s Marina Agortimevor, who emphasized the need for a fair and phased shift away from coal and fossil fuels while safeguarding
communities. Speakers cautioned against false solutions such as carbon markets, land grabbing, and narrative capture, underscoring the need for solutions rooted in community
realities.

Participants also explored transitions “from below,” with Power Shift Africa highlighting grassroots strategies like net metering campaigns, renewable energy cooperatives, and policy advocacy. Presenters from Zambia and Zimbabwe offered a comparative overview of the energy landscape, highlighting coal dependence, policy gaps, and the urgent need for inclusive dialogue, skills training, and equitable management of critical minerals shared by both nations.

One of the most impactful sessions featured testimonies from coal-affected communities in Chambishi, Maamba, the Copperbelt, and Hwange. Participants shared stories of
environmental degradation, industrial spills, and socioeconomic pressures—reinforcing why a just transition must be community-led. Discussions on climate finance revealed persistent challenges, including funding gaps, high-interest loans, and limited private sector investment. Proposals such as debt-for-climate swaps emerged as promising pathways.

Day Two focused on developing concrete strategies, starting with a presentation on principles for a rapid and equitable transition. Climate YES Zambia’s representative, Jessica Bwali, led a session on advocacy and stakeholder engagement highlighting the role of youth, traditional leaders, policymakers, and the media in driving peaceful and effective action.

Breakout groups from both countries mapped stakeholders, analyzed power dynamics, and identified national priorities to advance the transition. These discussions fed into a plenary that produced the first draft of a joint Zambia Zimbabwe Just Transition Plan. The workshop concluded with presentations of regional priorities and next steps, marking an important milestone in building coordinated, community-centred, and climate-just energy futures for both countries.