Abstract
The objective of this paper is to present a comprehensive review of the status quo of bio-fuels developments and the policy regimes including support measures driving the social, environmental and economic impacts of bio-fuels development. As it has been promoted by national policies markers, there is still no common consciences on its implication in achieving food security. The case study was based on a Meta evaluation carried out in Zambia; the key findings indicated that there is possible diversion of labour, land, extension service to bio-fuel and competition of input use might lead to reduction of food production and high food prices if the biofuel market proves lucrative. However the price of bio-fuel feedstock from Jatropha in Zambia was not attractive enough to encourage farmers to grow more Jatropha and this has raised major concerns by both farmers and policy makers. Key words: Zambia, meta evaluation, Jatropha and policy implications.
Highlights
For Africa, access to secure, sustainable and affordable energy is pathway and critical for sustainable development; as it has an ability to vital services in improving quality of life that is essential inputs for socioeconomic development at regional, national and subnational levels (Singh and Sooch, 2004)
Renewable energy technologies (RETs) biofuel is vital in offering prospect of self-reliant energy supplies at national and local levels, with potential benefit to economic, ecological, social, and food security benefits (Biswas et al, 2001)
Since time immemorial Zambia has been a net importer of petroleum requirement that represents 9% of the total national energy demand
Summary
For Africa, access to secure, sustainable and affordable energy is pathway and critical for sustainable development; as it has an ability to vital services in improving quality of life that is essential inputs for socioeconomic development at regional, national and subnational levels (Singh and Sooch, 2004). Renewable energy technologies (RETs) biofuel is vital in offering prospect of self-reliant energy supplies at national and local levels, with potential benefit to economic, ecological, social, and food security benefits (Biswas et al, 2001). This implies that there is urgent need for substantial investment in domestic energy infrastructure for social improvement and economic growth. Expanding national and regional infrastructure would increase the efficiency of how Africa uses its energy resources, enabling Africa to increase its reliability of supply and reduce its dependence to oil imports (Amigun et al, 2008) This would improve energy security and increase access to energy services
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