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Harare’s green trailblazer: How the Swiss embassy is championing sustainability in Zimbabwe

Article, 16.06.2025

In the heart of Harare, where diesel and petrol engines dominate the streets, a sleek MG electric vehicle (EV4), adorned with green messaging and the iconic Swiss cross, is making heads turn. Acquired in 2023, this modern, silent, fast and efficient vehicle marks another bold step in the Swiss embassy’s commitment to sustainability.

The electric vehicle acquired by the Embassy of Switzerland in Harare has significantly reduced diesel consumption, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. Its striking green message was designed by a talented young local artist, Derwin Guti, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainability and climate awareness.
The electric vehicle acquired by the Embassy of Switzerland in Harare has significantly reduced diesel consumption, contributing to a lower carbon footprint. Its striking green message was designed by a talented young local artist, Derwin Guti, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainability and climate awareness. © Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe.

Leading the charge in electric mobility

Once the domain of highly developed nations, electric mobility is now a global movement. The Swiss embassy in Harare, through its Sustainable Embassy Team (SET), has embraced this shift, aligning with Switzerland’s strong push for greener transport solutions – and marking a refreshing change in optics to the usual landscape of bulky, white Land Cruisers with CD number plates.

The impact has been immediate. The introduction of the MG EV4 has significantly reduced the embassy’s reliance on diesel, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and lowering operational costs. More than a practical investment, the EV serves as a powerful symbol of innovation in a country grappling with environmental challenges. Its green message was brought to life through a graphic design competition involving local artists, whose creative expressions were inspired by the real and pressing environmental impacts of climate change in Zimbabwe.

At a time when fuel prices continue to rise and the global urgency to combat climate change grows, the vehicle’s quiet efficiency is redefining modern diplomacy – demonstrating that sustainability can be both economically sound and environmentally responsible. The results speak for themselves: in 2023, the embassy achieved a 44 per cent reduction in diesel consumption compared to the previous year. A trend that has continued with a further seven per cent reduction recorded in 2024.

Harnessing solar power for a sustainable future

The embassy commissioned one of its largest solar facilities in the region in 2020 to generate clean, low-carbon and sustainable energy.
The embassy commissioned one of its largest solar facilities in the region in 2020 to generate clean, low-carbon and sustainable energy. © Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe.

Harare, also known as the ‘Sunshine City’, is blessed with abundant sunlight, and the Swiss embassy is tapping into this renewable resource to power its operations. On average, 56 per cent of the embassy’s office and two official residences run on clean solar energy, reducing dependency on the national grid and ensuring uninterrupted operations despite almost daily power cuts in the country.

The embassy’s transition to solar power has proven to be a game-changer, boosting energy resilience while significantly reducing costs. This forward-thinking approach integrates renewable energy with innovative transport solutions, setting a new standard for sustainability.

Taking it a step further, the embassy is awaiting the Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority to finalise the operationalisation of the net metering system that will allow surplus solar power to be fed back into the national grid, earning energy credits and reinforcing the embassy’s leadership in sustainable energy management.

Operating in a water scarce environment

Zimbabwe continues to face severe climate-related shocks, with 2024 witnessing the worst drought in over four decades due to El Niño. The impact has been devastating: harvests across the region have failed and water tables already under stress have receded even further. Fortunately, the Swiss residence was well-prepared. As early as 2017, a comprehensive rainwater harvesting system was installed, enabling the collection of up to 180,000 litres of rainwater. This foresight has allowed the residence to sustainably irrigate its garden, even in the face of prolonged dry spells.

In addition to these measures, the residence also drastically reduced its reliance on water deliveries by heavy-duty diesel trucks, previously averaging 30,000 litres per month, by drilling a borehole to a depth of 163 metres. This effort combined indigenous knowledge systems with scientific methods to locate a reliable, clean water source at the residence. The result has been zero truck deliveries to the residence since August 2024, significantly cutting CO₂ emissions and further strengthening the embassy’s commitment to sustainable and climate-resilient operations.

Towards environmental, social and economic sustainability

The introduction of a talented MasterChef winner at the embassy has led to a growing appreciation for vegetarian dishes at official functions, an important shift from the past that further reduces the embassy’s environmental impact
The introduction of a talented MasterChef winner at the embassy has led to a growing appreciation for vegetarian dishes at official functions, an important shift from the past that further reduces the embassy’s environmental impact © Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe.

Electric mobility and solar power are just two facets of the embassy’s broader sustainability strategy. Over the years, the Swiss embassy in Harare has embraced a range of sustainability initiatives, including:

Smart automation: Installing occupancy sensors and programmable timers to reduce energy waste, ensuring unused equipment is powered down automatically.

Sustainable resource management: Conducting regular energy audits and benchmarking performance to drive continuous improvements.

Most controversially in a meat-loving country, introducing at least one vegetarian meal at embassy functions. This shift was made easier by the fact that the embassy employs the winner of MasterChef Zimbabwe as its chef, a culinary talent with a real passion for sustainable food systems. The chef’s creativity and expertise have played a key role in persuading guests and staff alike to embrace vegetarian meals.

These efforts have not only reduced the embassy’s carbon footprint but have also generated financial savings that can be reinvested into further sustainability projects. For 2025, the Sustainable Embassy Team has set a target to quantify the savings from these various renewable energy initiatives.

While environmental efforts remain at the core of its sustainability plan, the embassy is also increasingly looking at social and economic aspects. To support staff health and wellbeing, a weekly yoga class over lunchtime gathers a committed group of staffers. To help tackle the pink tax, free menstrual products are also available in the embassy’s facilities for all visitors and staff.

A model for green diplomacy

The transformation at the Swiss embassy in Harare reflects a growing trend in green diplomacy – a commitment to environmental stewardship through innovative, practical solutions. By integrating cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices, the embassy is setting a benchmark for others in Zimbabwe and across the region.

As the MG EV4 glides silently through Harare’s streets, it symbolises more than just a modern vehicle – it embodies Switzerland’s commitment to environmental leadership. This initiative demonstrates that sustainable practices are not just theoretical aspirations but tangible realities that create a cleaner, brighter future for all.

Interview with Ambassador Stéphane Rey, Swiss Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi

Ambassador Stéphane Rey
Ambassador Stéphane Rey © FDFA

Why is it important for the Swiss embassy to prioritise sustainability in Zimbabwe?

Sustainability is not merely a concept we discuss: it is a principle we embody daily. Zimbabwe, like many nations, is grappling with the tangible effects of climate change. In 2024, the country experienced its most severe drought in over four decades, exacerbated by El Niño. This led to widespread crop failures, dwindling water tables, and significant energy shortages, with power cuts lasting up to 17 hours a day.

​Through our cooperation programme, the embassy is actively involved in mitigating these challenges, supporting initiatives that enhance food security, access to clean water, and sustainable energy solutions. Leading by example, we aim to demonstrate Switzerland’s commitment to sustainability and reinforce our credibility as a partner in Zimbabwe’s development journey. We have been advised by Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis to “walk the talk”. Here is a good application of this mantra.

​What new sustainability initiatives is the embassy undertaking this year, and what impact do you anticipate?

This year, we are working together with an energy expert to audit and optimise our energy systems, aiming to further reduce our reliance on grid electricity. One focus area is implementing smart building automation to minimise unnecessary power consumption during off-peak hours. This not only lowers our energy bills but also reduces our carbon footprint.

​We are also enhancing our gardens’ water efficiency by introducing indigenous plant species that require less irrigation, aligning with sustainable landscaping practices. In addition, we have incorporated more vegetarian options into our embassy functions, a change that has sparked engaging discussions in a country where meat is a staple.

The embassy is also addressing social and economic aspects of sustainability. What opportunities do you see in this area?

Sustainability encompasses environmental, social, and economic dimensions. We are investing in staff well-being through initiatives like weekly yoga sessions, recognising that a healthy, motivated team is fundamental to a sustainable workplace.​ Economically, our adoption of an electric vehicle has resulted in annual savings of approximately USD 2,700 in fuel costs. This not only reduces operational expenses but also aligns with our commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.​ Furthermore, our bilateral cooperation programme in Zimbabwe supports initiatives aimed at improving food security, healthcare access, and disaster risk reduction. By integrating social and economic considerations into our sustainability efforts, we aim to contribute to a more resilient and equitable society.

Beyond the embassy: Driving change in rural Zimbabwe

The SDC is working with EEP Africa and Mobility for Africa to improve mobility in rural Zimbabwe. The innovative tricycle is powered by a solar-charged lithium-ion battery, which Mobility for Africa leases for a small fee to women in rural Zimbabwe.
The SDC is working with EEP Africa and Mobility for Africa to improve mobility in rural Zimbabwe. The innovative tricycle is powered by a solar-charged lithium-ion battery, which Mobility for Africa leases for a small fee to women in rural Zimbabwe. © Embassy of Switzerland in Zimbabwe.

The embassy’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its own operations. Through the portfolio of its cooperation programme, Switzerland is also championing electric mobility in rural Zimbabwe. The SDC is working together with the Energy and Environment Partnership Trust Fund (EEP Africa) and Mobility for Africa to introduce electric-powered tricycles, easing transportation challenges for rural women and challenging traditional mobility norms.

These innovative tricycles run on solar-charged lithium-ion batteries, which Mobility for Africa leases at affordable rates to women in rural communities. By promoting clean, accessible transportation, Switzerland is helping to enhance livelihoods and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

In addition, the SDC is also working with EEP Africa to promote private sector-driven clean energy initiatives that generate additional income and improve the lives of customers. These include micro- and mini-grids, distribution-related activities, renewable energy power generation, energy storage technologies and the promotion of efficient energy use. The programme also supports clean cookstoves and fuels for residential, institutional and commercial purposes, among other sustainable energy solutions.

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Last update 27.11.2017