Bioenergy resource assessment for Zambia

The study in this paper makes an assessment of the bioenergy potential from crop residues, forest residues, livestock waste, semi-arid areas energy crops, municipal solid waste (MSW) and water hyacinth in Zambia. A total technical bioenergy potential of about 310 PJ per annum has been estimated and using quantum geographical information systems (QGIS) the spatial distribution shown. Of the total, crop residues contributes 64%, forest residues 17%, livestock waste 9%, jatropha cultivation in semi-arid lands 8% and 2% from MSW and water hyacinth together. Formulation of an integrative bioenergy policy, creation of a bioenergy resource database, conducting of research and development, creation bioenergy unit, engagement and involvement of all stakeholders, education and capacity building, feedstock value chain analysis, dissemination of information, creation of decentralized models, devolution of powers and financing models are very critical aspects if the bioenergy sector has to be sustainably adopted in Zambia.