By Ntombi Mhlongo
Acting Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Jabulani Mabuza says now is the time to tackle climate change. Mabuza said it is important to take drastic action before society suffers long-lasting consequences.
He was speaking during the Earth Hour Symposium and the launch of Earth Hour 2023 on Thursday. This year’s Earth Hour will be commemorated on March 25, under the theme: “Investing in our planet” #Shape Our Future.
“The energy sector is confronted with many challenges which threaten the supply of electricity. The climate change impacts are exacerbating the situation and it is expected to worsen in the future. More extreme storms and flooding, extreme droughts, extreme heat, water and energy shortages, more pollution, and loss of biodiversity will be evident. The recent heavy storms and floods are examples of extreme events which show that as a country we are not immune”, the minister said.
He mentioned that this year’s launch will not only sensitise the country on energy savings but will also focus on the increasing need, across all sectors, to discuss mitigation strategies and actions towards climate change.
“Let’s make this year’s 2023 Earth Hour event the moment where we come together with the courage and determination to respond to technology needs that address the impacts of climate change. We have the responsibility to choose a cleaner and greener future for our children and grandchildren.”
He said cross-sector collaboration, partnerships, and true stewardship should be at the centre of shaping the national climate action agenda.
“When partnerships materialise progress ripples outward, with greater impact for everyone. For real change to take root, working together is imperative. I believe we can make the Eswatini economy thrive and have communities that are vibrant and sustainable.”
Meanwhile, the Eswatini Electricity Company (EEC) Managing Director Ernest Mkhonta said: “We cannot ignore the climate impact on humanity, the earth is heating up and we are experiencing extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and fires. The distortion of the climate risks is causing incalculable damage. For the past two weeks, it has been raining intensely and our operations have been affected significantly impacting our service delivery. Our dam levels have increased, and we are generating to capacity for peak demand.”
