About
Who we are?
Zambian Electric Mobility Innovation Alliance (ZEMIA)) is a leading non-profit organization and is the first and only Civil Society in Zambia dedicated to supporting the adoption, development, and growth of the electric mobility (EV) ecosystem in Zambia.
Our mission is to create a business-friendly environment for the industry, foster innovation, and promote favourable public policies that contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions.
Our Vision: Empowering Zambia’s Electric Future: Pioneering Excellence, Innovation, and Sustainability for a Greener Tomorrow.
To achieve our mission, ZEMIA has established seven work groups that collaborate to develop a comprehensive and multi-step approach:
- Adoption Enablers (Incentives, Policy, Regulation & Standards): This work group focuses on creating favourable incentives, policies, regulations, and standards that support the widespread adoption of electric mobility.
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ZEMIA recognizes the importance of robust charging infrastructure for the success of electric mobility. This work group is dedicated to developing strategies and initiatives to expand and enhance the charging network across the country. - Technology: Keeping pace with technological advancements is crucial for the development of electric mobility. The Technology work group explores and promotes innovative solutions, including advanced EV technologies, smart charging systems, and energy management.
- Research & Development (Academic & Workforce Programs): ZEMIA values research and development as key drivers of progress. This work group collaborates with academic institutions, industry experts, and the workforce to advance knowledge and skills in the electric mobility sector.
- Electric Motor Vehicles & Cycles: Supporting the growth of electric motor vehicles and cycles is a priority for ZEMIA. This work group focuses on facilitating the manufacturing, distribution, and adoption of electric vehicles and two-wheeled electric transportation options.
- Battery Storage: Recognizing the significance of battery storage in electric mobility, ZEMIA's Battery Storage work group explores advancements in battery technology, promotes sustainable battery manufacturing, and advocates for effective battery recycling and disposal practices.
- Supply Chain Attraction and Innovation: Developing a strong and sustainable supply chain is crucial for the success of electric mobility. This work group collaborates with various stakeholders to attract investments, promote local manufacturing, and foster innovation in the supply chain.
Each work group’s objectives are essential for the development of an electric mobility ecosystem in Zambia. ZEMIA’s overarching goal is to create a business-friendly climate that encourages investment, stimulates innovation, and accelerates economic growth. By directly engaging stakeholders, including government bodies, businesses, academia, and the public, we aim to drive the development and implementation of initiatives that support electric mobility and innovation in Zambia.
Zambia holds a highly advantageous position as it possesses abundant resources required to build a robust electric vehicle ecosystem. By joining hands with unlimited possibilities, ZEMIA envisions the rapid scaling up and adoption of electric vehicles in the country.
Incentives, Policies and Regulations
We firmly believe that to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in Zambia, the government needs to implement the right incentives, policies, standards, and regulations. ZEMIA actively advocates for the following incentives to promote the widespread adoption of electric vehicles and related infrastructure:
- Incentivize electricity through a special tariff for charging EVs and special connection fees for EV chargers.
- Reduce corporate tax on companies involved in the EV space, such as EV manufacturers, retrofitting companies, and providers of EV charging infrastructure.
- Zero rate, waive, or reduce customs and VAT tax rates to 0% for Electric Vehicles (EVs), Electric Motor Bikes/Tricycles, and all supported accessories, as well as EV retrofitting/conversion kits such as EV gearboxes, EV shafts, EV motors, and EV charging stations (AC/DC). This will encourage affordability and accessibility of EVs and their components.
- Waive Road Tax for EVs for a period of 5 years, providing financial relief to EV owners and further incentivizing the adoption of electric vehicles.
Courtesy of Sicon Chat Union Electric Co., Ltd. (referred to as: SCU Electric)
Courtesy of Subilo Energy
- Waive Road Tolls for EVs for a duration of 5 years, making electric vehicles a more cost-effective and attractive transportation option for commuters.
- Provide free parking for EVs for a period of 5 years to encourage EV owners and create convenient charging and parking infrastructure in public spaces.
- Grant free and priority loading for EV buses, ensuring efficient and seamless transportation services and promoting the use of electric buses for sustainable urban mobility.
- Offer free charging on state chargers, establishing a network of government-supported charging stations where EV owners can conveniently recharge their vehicles.
- Implement a zero carbon tax policy, exempting electric vehicles from additional taxes or fees based on carbon emissions, further incentivising their adoption and promoting sustainable transportation alternatives
- Mandate that new fuel service stations install EV chargers, encouraging the expansion of charging infrastructure and facilitating the transition to electric mobility.
- Set a target for the government to ensure that at least 50% of all new vehicle purchases are electric vehicles, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable transportation and creating a significant market demand for EVs.
- Introduce green-marked number plates that clearly identify EVs, allowing for easier recognition and potential additional benefits or privileges for electric vehicle owners.
- Support the installation of EV chargers by availing land along highways, particularly fast-charging stations, at strategic intervals such as 50/100 km from Chipata to Kalabo, Nakonde to Kapiri Mposhi, and Solwezi to Sesheke through Lusaka and Livingstone. This initiative aims to enhance long-distance travel convenience for EV owners and foster a comprehensive charging infrastructure network.
- Require new fuel service stations to include EV chargers as part of their infrastructure, ensuring that charging facilities are readily available to EV users across the country.
Courtesy of Subilo Energy
ZEMIA actively advocates for these incentives and policies to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles in Zambia, foster innovation, and drive the transition to a sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation system. By creating a supportive ecosystem, ZEMIA aims to position Zambia as a leader in electric mobility and contribute to the country’s economic development and environmental goals.
Zambian Electric Mobility Innovation Alliance (Zemia)
Corporate Governance Statement
As the Zambian Electric Mobility Innovation Alliance (ZEMIA), we are dedicated to establishing a governance framework that embodies global best practices as we lead the adoption and growth of the electric mobility ecosystem in Zambia. As the first and only Civil Society organization focused on this mission, we place utmost importance on transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in all aspects of our operations.
ZEMIA operates under the governance guidelines outlined in the Zambian Societies Act Cap 119 (Section 7 (2)). As an association registered under this Act, we are committed to abiding by its provisions, which include the following key elements:
Constitution: We have developed a comprehensive constitution that outlines our objectives, organizational structure, decision-making processes, and membership guidelines. Our constitution adheres to the requirements set forth in the Zambian Societies Act, ensuring compliance with legal obligations.
Annual General Meetings: We hold regular Annual General Meetings (AGMs) as mandated by the Zambian Societies Act. These meetings provide an opportunity for our members to receive updates on our activities, participate in decision-making processes, and elect individuals to key leadership positions.
Financial Reporting: We maintain accurate financial records and prepare annual financial statements in accordance with the requirements of the Zambian Societies Act. We ensure transparency and accountability by presenting these statements to our members during AGMs.
Membership Obligations: We uphold the rights and responsibilities of our members as stipulated by the Zambian Societies Act. We respect the privacy and confidentiality of our members’ information, and we ensure fair and inclusive membership processes.
Compliance with Legal and Regulatory Requirements: We diligently comply with all relevant laws, regulations, and statutory obligations of Zambia. We maintain the necessary licenses, permits, and registrations to operate as a legally recognized association.
Through our adherence to the Zambian Societies Act Cap 119 (Section 7 (2)) and the incorporation of best governance practices, we establish a robust governance framework that upholds transparency, accountability, and ethical standards at ZEMIA.
As we pioneer the path toward a greener tomorrow, ZEMIA remains committed to upholding these governance principles, continuously evaluating, and improving our practices to drive positive impact and shape a sustainable future for electric mobility in Zambia
