Scout Aerial Africa utilizes drones for topographic surveys, offering highly precise survey-grade measurements faster and more cost-effectively than traditional methods.
V O L U M E T R I C S U R V E Y S
Drones capture aerial imagery for accurate volume calculations, aiding in stockpile assessment and resource allocation. The method proves useful in Waste Management, Mine Planning, Land Use Planning, and more.
G E O P H Y S I C A L S U R V E Y S
We conduct precise remote inspections, capturing ultra-high-resolution geophysical magnetic survey data efficiently. This geophysical method maps spatial variations in the Earth's magnetic field, aiding in various applications like mineral delineation and environmental searches.
R P L T R A I N I N G
Our RPAS professionals offer CAAZapproved training for all experience levels. Our goal is to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for safe and efficient aerial operations.
Recognizing the critical need for investment, Zimbabwe actively engages in international platforms such as the Zim-Zam Energy Summit to showcase its vast potential and cultivate vital partnerships within the global energy community.
However, the journey towards a secure and sustainable energy future is not without its challenges. The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Energy and Power Development recently issued a warning regarding potential prolonged power shortages, emphasizing the urgent imperative to significantly boost domestic electricity generation
In the coal sector, Contango Holdings Plc’s increased stake in the Muchesu coal project underscores the continued economic significance of this resource.
Simultaneously, the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), as indicated on its official website, is actively promoting increased research and development within the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) sector, with a particular focus on pro-consumer studies aimed at accelerating its wider adoption.
This edition endeavors to provide a nuanced reflection of the multifaceted and constantly evolving nature of Zimbabwe’s energy sector, acknowledging both the substantial progress being made and the persistent challenges that require focused attention and innovative solutions. We trust you will find this edition insightful and engaging.
Enjoy your reading.
RK FUELS: TRENDSETTING AND FUELING PERFECTION
In March 2010, a modest venture entered Zimbabwe’s petroleum sector with a single focus—paraffin.
Registered as Redan Kerosine and trading as RK Fuels, the company began its journey supplying a staple energy source to countless households. Over the years, however, that humble beginning transformed dramatically.
Today, RK Fuels is a leading importer and distributor of liquid fuels in Zimbabwe, offering a full spectrum of petroleum products and services. When RK Fuels first emerged on the scene, its offerings were limited to paraffin—a product deeply woven into the everyday lives of Zimbabweans at that time.
Even then, the founders must have wanted to evolve beyond a single product and create a comprehensive fuel supply network. Over the past decade, that vision has materialised with impressive momentum.
RK Fuels now supplies a diverse range of products, from premium blends and Diesel 50 to lubricants and accessories, while also introducing innovative services like fuel coupons and an advanced fleet card system.
Images by CAAST Media Group and Scotty Photography
Text by Farai Chaka
The company’s retail strategy is a balanced mix of own-branded sites and strategic dealership locations, seeing to it that their high-quality fuel reaches every corner of the market. RK Fuels’ growth is anchored by its dedication to “fueling perfection”.
With a well-maintained Freshly Branded fleet of calibrated trucks, the company ensures efficient bulk distribution, while its high-speed dispensing depots cater to the needs of heavy-duty transport.
Whether it is supplying liquid fuels to large corporations or offering tailored fuel solutions to SMEs, RK Fuels has positioned itself as a reliable and
forward-thinking partner in the Zimbabwean energy sector. The story of RK Fuels is not just one of product evolution but of strategic expansion. The company entered the Retail Sector with its first service station in Lewisam Harare—a deliberate choice reflecting its commitment to quality and convenience.
The Lewisam location, with its mix of high-traffic businesses and discerning residents, proved the ideal testing ground for RK Fuels’ retail ambitions. It was not just about selling fuel but more about curating an experience built on efficiency, reliability and outstanding customer
service, a standard they have seamlessly replicated across their growing network of service stations.
Today, RK Fuels operates seven strategically positioned service stations in locations including Lewisam, Alex Park, Amby, Borrowdale, Aspindale, and Madokero.
Each station is meticulously chosen to serve communities that value convenience and are less sensitive to pricing, such as those in Borrowdale, and most recently Cardinals Corner.
We’ve got you covered with quality fuel, friendly service, and a seamless experience! Drive by RK Fuels Today and feel the difference.
The company’s carefully thought out expansion is a testament to its deep understanding of the market and its ability to deliver what customers need, even as demands evolve.
Among RK Fuels’ many success stories, the development of the Churchill Road station is perhaps the most personal. A location that the company’s Managing Director Marc Thompson, drove past for many years while growing up in the Alex Park Area.
Fortuitously, when this property came up for sale, it was imperative it was secured to complete his vision, for that location to not only be added to RK’s retail expansion plan, but become the company’s Flagship site. Official construction began in July 2023, and by March 2024, the Churchill Road station was completed.
Today, it stands as a living testament to sheer foresight and determination —a facility that combines modern infrastructure with the company’s trademark commitment to quality and service.
Early March 2025, RK Fuels reached another milestone with the opening of its latest service station at Cardinals Corner—a dynamic new retail and commercial development at the intersection ofHarare Drive and ED Mnangagwa Road.
Designed to meet the increasing demand for fuel in this high-traffic area, the station will ensure that motorists, fleet operators and transport companies can refuel efficiently and conveniently.
Cardinals Corner was developed in line with the Enterprise Development Corridor Local Development Plan, with a vision to offer state-ofthe-art amenities that enhance both business and everyday life.
The mixed-use center will feature a fast-food drive-through, a hardware store, a full-service supermarket, a restaurant, a car showroom and line shops, making it a bustling hub of activity.
RK Fuels’ presence at this key location is essential, providing seamless access to high-quality fuel and service for businesses and individuals who rely on uninterrupted mobility.
The launch of Cardinal Corner service station is another example of RK Fuels’ strategic focus on accessibility and service excellence.
By placing premium stations in well-chosen locations, the company not only meets current market demands but also sets the stage for future growth. Beyond its impressive growth and expansion, RK Fuels is distinguished by its relentless pursuit of service excellence.
Fill up at RK & let our friendly team fuel your journey with a smile!
Every station is built with the customer in mind, featuring modern, well-maintained infrastructure and a team of friendly professionals dedicated to ensuring a smooth, hassle-free experience. One key initiative that embodies this commitment is the Fuel Attendant of the Month program.
This internal award celebrates those attendants who consistently demonstrate exceptional performance, professionalism and a genuine dedication to customer satisfaction. Such initiatives not only boost employee morale but also reinforce the company’s ethos of delivering service that goes above and beyond expectations.
Moreover, RK Fuels employs advanced three-phase filtration systems at its pumps to guarantee that every drop of fuel dispensed is of the highest quality—clean, efficient and o ptimised for performance. This attention to detail is a key piece of the brand’s reputation, so that customers receive fuel that not only powers their vehicles but also contributes to better engine health and overall efficiency. 11
The RK Fuels Fleet Card and Fuel Coupons: In a market where managing fuel expenses can be a significant burden, RK Fuels has introduced innovative solutions designed to streamline operations and offer financial clarity— the RK Fuels Fleet Card and fuel coupons.
The RK Fuels Fleet Card is to simplify the fueling process for businesses of all sizes.
This secure, cashless payment method offers real-time expense tracking, instant transaction confirmations and tailored fuel solutions that can be customised to meet the unique needs of each business. Whether managing a small delivery service or a large national fleet, the RK Fuels Fleet Card provides an efficient, transparent way to control fuel costs while enhancing security.
Complementing the fleet card is the company’s fuel coupon system. Designed many years ago as a smart, future-proof alternative to traditional payment methods, these coupons allow customers to lock in fuel prices for longer periods! This flexibility is especially valuable in an environment where fuel prices can fluctuate
significantly, giving both individual and corporate customers peace of mind and guaranteed access to fuel.
RK Fuels’ impact extends far beyond its service stations. The company serves a broad array of sectors— agriculture, industry, transport, mining, government, NGOs, SMEs, and more. This diverse clientele speaks to the company’s deep understanding of the market and its ability to adapt its offerings to meet the specific needs of each industry. Whether through bulk fuel distribution, tailored retail solutions, or innovative financial products like the Fleet Card and fuel coupons, RK Fuels ensures that every customer, regardless of size or sector, experiences consistent and high-quality service.
FUELING PERFECTION
The company’s strategic positioning of its service stations in areas like Borrowdale, Alex Park, and Chisipite is a deliberate choice to cater to customers who value service quality over price. This focus on premium service, combined with competitive pricing and operational efficiency, has established RK Fuels as a trendsetter in the industry—one that others look to as a standard for excellence.
It’s A Vibe
At the core of RK Fuels’ success is its people. The company is powered by a team that not only understands fuel and services but also embodies a passion for excellence. From the dedicated fuel attendants who greet every customer with a smile to the logistics experts who ensure timely deliveries across the nation, every team member plays a crucial role in the company’s ongoing success.
The Fuel Attendant of the Month initiative is a prime example of how RK Fuels invests in its people. This program recognises those who go the extra mile in providing outstanding service, creating a work culture that prizes consistency, professionalism and a positive attitude. Such initiatives are instrumental in building a brand that customers trust—a brand that stands by its promise of “smooth rides with quick, hassle-free service.”
The story of RK Fuels is one of continuous evolution. With a network of strategically placed service stations, innovative products that simplify fuel management, and a team dedicated to excellence, the company is poised for further growth and expansion. Looking ahead, RK Fuels remains steadfast in its mission: to fuel Zimbabwe with efficiency, reliability, and a customer-centric approach. Every new service station, every innovative solution, and every satisfied customer is a step toward a future where quality fuel is accessible to all—a future where RK Fuels continues to be the engine driving progress and prosperity.
In an industry where every drop counts, RK Fuels has been a trusted partner for businesses, communities and individuals alike. From its early days as a paraffin distributor to its current status as a renowned name in Zimbabwe’s energy sector, RK Fuels has shown what it means to deliver excellence, to give the customers exactly what they want. With groundbreaking initiatives like the Fleet Card, fuel coupons, and strategically located service stations, RK Fuels is a trendsetter.
BDS CONSTRUCTION TRANSFORMS A COMPLEX SITE INTO A PERFECTLY LEVEL PLATFORM
Text by Farai Chaka
Work on the broader Cardinals Corner development began in February 2024, with the RK Fuels retail station forming part of the project’s commercial core. BDS Construction handled the complete earthworks and civil infrastructure right from the first shovel in the ground to the last paver laid. The client’s brief was straightforward: create a level, well-serviced platform to support a busy service station.
Images by Caast Media Group
Two engineered base layers were imported, compacted and tested to ensure the ground could handle high vehicle loads. Paving started in October and was finished by early November, leaving the platform ready for operations.
The project scope was comprehensive. The team laid 150 metres of stormwater drainage piping, installed a water reticulation system connecting council water to all buildings and set up fire suppression lines and hydrants.
A new sewer network was completed, around 100,000 brick pavers were laid, 200 linear metres of heavy-duty kerbing were constructed and road markings were applied to council specifications.
Despite the challenging terrain, the team successfully transformed an uneven site into a stable, fully functional forecourt. BDS Construction looks forward to future collaborations with the client, building on the immense success of this project.
BDS Construction specialises in delivering high-quality civil construction, with expertise in subdivision development, bitumen surfacing, bulk earthworks, trenching, and drainage. Their civil works cover essential infrastructure such as stormwater management, sewer lines and utility trenching allowing for robust and efficient project execution.
The design required precise leveling, reliable drainage, robust roadworks and safe access points, all delivered on a tight schedule without sacrificing quality. The natural slopes at the site added complexity thus demanding careful planning to achieve the required elevations.
The work began with bulk earthworks and underground services, completed in about three weeks. This involved topsoil stripping, cut-to-waste and cut-to-fill processes to shape the site, which covers approximately 2,000m².
D RIVEN T O L EAD
text by Farai Chaka
Morewear Manufacturing continues to solidify its presence in the fuel industry. Specialising in the production of fuel storage tanks, service station canopies and complete service station installations up to commissioning, the company delivers products that meet a wide array of client needs.
Their fuel storage tanks, ranging from compact sizes ideal for homes and small businesses to colossal structures designed for mining, industrial and agricultural operations, are engineered to handle diverse liquid fuels such as petrol, diesel, paraffin and ethanol. The company’s tanks are not only customisable but also meticulously designed in-house by a team of specialist engineers from initial blueprints to the final product.
A critical aspect of Morewear Manufacturing’s success lies in its adherence to internationally recognised standards. Every raw material is sourced from reputable, certified steel suppliers so that each product meets stringent criteria set by bodies such as ASME, British Standards Institution, SANS and SAZ. With the capacity to produce storage tanks up to one million litres and beyond their products come with guarantees and independent inspection agency approals, reinforcing trust among clients like Glow Petroleum, DA, Thuli, Energy Park and G-Fuels among others.
The company’s expertise is not confined to fuel storage alone. Their portfolio extends to the production of pressure vessels, including air receivers, storage vessels and reactors, all pivotal in maintaining uninterrupted industrial processes. Moreover, Morewear Manufacturing offers an array of other products, such as modular steel water tanks, steel structures, stainless steel mixing tanks, mining equipment and large bore piping. This diverse offering is supported by an impressive array of machinery which includes steel preparation and finishing shops, milling machines, center lathes, rolling machines and automated welding systems all which allows the company to maintain high production efficiency and quality.
A long-standing history of excellence underpins the company’s current achievements. Drawing on expertise honed since the 1960s—from heavy haul trailers and freight wagons to mining equipment and pressure vessels—Morewear Manufacturing builds on a legacy of industrial innovation.
The company’s evolution was further strengthened by early investments in large and small-bore pipe manufacturing and the establishment of a machine shop, ultimately positioning it as a leader in heavy engineering across the region.
Quality and customer service remain at the core of the company’s ethos. With ISO 9001 certification and a robust Quality Assurance Department, Morewear Manufacturing has optimised its systems to improve product delivery, communication and overall customer satisfaction.
Their commitment to after-sales service, including regular follow-ups with clients, underscores a dedication to ensuring that every product performs as expected, thereby fostering long-term partnerships. In 2025, Morewear Manufacturing is not only serving the fuel sector but also supporting engineering, construction, mining agriculture and local government authorities. By continually investing in innovation and leveraging the expertise of skilled engineers and artisans, the company is well-positioned to lead from the front.
gomera@morewear.co.zw mapanga@morewear.co.zw baatgies@morewear.co.z w Email.
morewear.co.zw
ZERA ADVOCATES FOR PRO-CONSUMER RESEARCH TO FUEL LPG SECTOR GROWTH
By Martin Chemhere
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) is, according to information on their website, pushing for increased research and development within the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) sector, emphasizing the need for pro-consumer studies to accelerateits adoption.
Recognizing LPG as a burgeoning energy source in Zimbabwe, ZERA believes that keeping pace with global advancements is crucial for both industry stakeholders and consumers. ZERA highlights the necessity for comprehensive research to introduce efficient technologies and enhance safety protocols within the LPG market.
This focus on innovation is intended to address existing consumer apprehensions and unlock the full potential of LPG as a viable energy alternative. A key area identified for immediate research is the feasibility and implementation of piped and metered LPG systems for domestic and commercial use.
ZERA acknowledges that lingering concerns about LPG safety persist among certain consumer segments, hindering widespread adoption. Pro-consumer research initiatives are deemed essential to address these fears and build confidence in the product.
Conducting thorough studies into safety measures, efficient distribution methods, and cost-effective implementation strategies will enable ZERA to create a robust business case for LPG among diverse consumer groups. This research will explore optimal infrastructure development, consumer education campaigns, and the establishment of stringent safety standards.
Furthermore, ZERA believes that research should focus on developing user-friendly technologies and appliances that enhance the convenience and safety of LPG usage.
As they address consumer concerns through data-driven research, ZERA seeks to foster a sustainable and thriving LPG sector that benefits the economy and the environment. This proactive approach underscores ZERA's commitment to ensuring a secure and reliable energy future for Zimbabwe.
INVESTMENT IN LITHIUM SOARSGWANDA LITHIUM MINE COMPLETES PLANT
GWANDA Lithium Mine recently completed the construction of its multi-million-dollar lithium processing plant and secured an export permit from the Government. This paves the way for the company to commence shipping its lithium concentrate to China. Mines and Mining Development Minister, Winston Chitando, recently confirmed the development in Parliament.
The lithium project is one of many multimillion-dollar lithium investments the country has witnessed in recent years, as demand for the global energy mineral is forecast to soar.
Zimbabwe’s lithium sector has been experiencing significant investment, particularly from Chinese companies. Notable projects include the US$300 million spodumene processing plant at Bikita Lithium Mine and the US$300 million lithium concentrator at the Arcadia project near Harare.
The surge in interest in Zimbabwe’s lithium sector stems from its crucial role in the global transition to clean energy, particularly the electrification of transportation and energy storage.
Lithium is a key component of rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. Minister Chitando stated that the Chinese company had since applied for an export licence.
“Gwanda Lithium Mine has completed the construction of its lithium processing plant and has been following up on the application for an approved processing plant permit from the ministry.
“They were given a waiver to proceed, pending the approval of the permit,” Minister Chitando said. Since its inception in January 2024, Gwanda has been producing approximately 1,500 tonnes per day of lithium concentrate.
The output, in an increasingly electrified global economy, underscores the mine’s operational efficiency and potential for growth.
“In the meantime, Gwanda Lithium Mine is currently producing 1,500 tonnes per day of lithium concentrate since its inception in January 2024,” the minister added.
In light of this significant production, the ministry issued a six-month export licence for a trial shipment of 5,000 metric tonnes of lithium concentrate to China.
This strategic move aims to test and establish viable international markets for the company as it seeks to position itself as a reliable supplier in the global electric battery lithium market. The lithium mine employs 300 people, 80 percent of whom are locals. Production is expected to reach one million tonnes of ore and 200 000 tonnes of lithium concentrate annually once the plant reaches full production capacity.
The US$54 million mining venture is a subsidiary of the Chinese global investor Tsingshan Holdings Limited Group, whose other unit last year completed the construction of the US$1,5 billion Dinson Iron and Steel plant in Mvuma, Midlands Province. The group’s other two subsidiaries include Dinson Colliery in Hwange, Matabeleland
North Province, and Afrochine Smelting in Selous, near Chegutu, Mashonaland West Province. The group’s other two subsidiaries include Dinson Colliery in Hwange, Matabeleland North Province, and Afrochine Smelting in Selous, near Chegutu, Mashonaland West Province.
Dinson had earlier expressed interest in setting up a lithium battery manufacturing plant, which led it to secure lithium mining claims in Gwanda. The company will thus produce lithium concentrates to support the proposed high-value lithium batteries project in Zimbabwe.
Minister Chitando also provided an update in Parliament on the mining activities around the Boterekwa area in the Midlands Province.
“There are currently two mining companies carrying out mining activities in the Boterekwa mountains.
“These are Chenxi Mining Company and Saironi Mining Company, which both purchased pre-existing mining locations from previous owners,” he said. According to the minister, Chenxi Mining Company is conducting surface mining of gold and heap leaching, while Saironi Mining Company is engaged in underground and surface mining, including crushing, milling, carbon-in-pulp (CIP) and elution.
These activities highlight growing investments and expansions in Zimbabwe’s mining sector. The investments in the lithium and gold mining sectors reflect a broader strategy to diversify the nation’s mining portfolio.
Supportive Government policies and a pro-business approach have driven investment in modern processing technologies that not only increase production but also improve the quality and marketability of the country’s mineral exports.
SURGE IN LPG USAGE AS ZIMBABWEANS EMBRACE RENEWABLE
The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) says the country recorded a 17,14 percent increase in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) usage over the last three years, citing the success of its awareness efforts to demystify insecurities around the use of LPG for heating, and the impact of supply challenges in the country. According to the latest ZERA statistics, usage increased to 77,437 million kg from 66,106 million kg in 2023. In 2022, LPG usage was 59,989 million kg. ZERA chief executive officer (CEO) Edington Mazambani said in an interview that while electricity challenges remained one of the main drivers of increased LPG usage, ZERA has also made significant progress demystifying
insecurities around its usagefor heating in homes. Zimbabwe is facing an acute shortage of electricity due to the impact of recurrent droughts, which have curbed output at one of the country’s largest power plants, Kariba South Power Station. Similarly, aged equipment at Hwange Power Station, Zimbabwe’s largest power plant, has reduced its output potential. This also comes as demand for power has grown significantly on account of increased economic activity, especially in the mining sector, due to expansions and new investments in lithium. The Government is working on several interventions to boost output, including joint efforts with Zambia to build 4200 megawatt (MW)
on the Batoka Gorge to be shared equally. It has also issued several independent power producers, some of whom are already feeding their excess power into the national grid. Zimbabwe needs about 2 200MW at peak demand, but current capacity averages about 1 400MW, with the shortfall met through imports and power rationing. ZERA, while acknowledging the impact of limited power supply in the country, also cited the success of its educational campaigns to demystify insecurities about using LPG.
“I could attribute the increase to two things, one being the electricity challenges and also, as a ZERA, for years we have been advocating for the safe use of LPG. “Through those stakeholder engagements,
we encourage people to use LPG for heating and cooking instead of just electricity,” he said. He added that ZERA also taught consumers safe methods of using LPG, which many people thought was a dangerous energy source. “We demystified the insecurity of using LPG gas, and also the power supply situation in the country has also helped boost demand for LPG,” said Mazambani. The growth in LPG consumption will also helpmitigate the effects of environmental pollution and degradation while offering affordable alternative energy to Zimbabweans. Through Statutory Instrument 195 of 2024, the Government removed value-added tax (VAT) in response to the growing usage of LPG as a crucial
alternative energy source, primarily for cooking and heating. ZERA then announced a 13 percent reduction in LPG price and exemption to VAT, effective January 1, 2025, which saw LPG prices dropping from US$1,86 to US$1,61 per kilogramme. In local currency, the price dropped from ZiG47,51 to ZiG 41,63 per kilogramme. In his 2025 national budget statement, Finance, Economic Development, and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube, underscored the importance of LPG as a cleaner and more sustainable energy source, especially as electricity shortages persist in the country. The National Oil Company (NOIC) is building a bulk LPG storage facility similar to the
Masasa fuel depot. Global market trends determine the price of LPG in Zimbabwe, which is a net importer of the commodity. However, a Harare resident, Prudence Mapfumo, said there had not been a significant reduction in LPG prices despite its VAT exemption. “At the moment we are buying the gas at US$1,80 per kg despite having read that LPG is now exempted from VAT. We want to appeal to the government to look into it since we are now using gas for most of our daily home activities, such as cooking and heating,” she said. Economist Dr Prosper Chitambara said power outages resulted in many households and businesses having to rely on backup in particular generators.
REGIONAL ENERGY COOPERATION: ZIMBABWE’S ROLE IN SAPP
Zimbabwe plays a crucial role in the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP), a regional initiative aimed at creating a competitive electricity market and enhancing energy security across Southern Africa.
SAPP facilitates the cross-border trade of electricity among member countries, allowing them to pool their resources and optimize power generation and distribution.
For Zimbabwe, participation in SAPP offers significant benefits, contributing to increased energy access, improved grid stability, and enhanced regional integration.Zimbabwe's energy sector faces various challenges, including aging infrastructure and fluctuating generation capacity.
SAPP membership provides access to a wider pool of electricity, allowing Zimbabwe to supplement its domestic supply during peak demand periods or during times of generation shortfalls. This interconnectedness strengthens the country's energy security and reduces the risk of widespread power outages.
Beyond immediate supply needs, SAPP membership encourages regional cooperation on energy infrastructure development. Joint projects, such as cross-border transmission lines, can improve the efficiency of electricity delivery and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. Zimbabwe stands to benefit from these regional infrastructure projects, gaining access to cleaner and more reliable energy supplies.
SAPP also promotes competition in the electricity market, which can lead to lower electricity prices for consumers. By allowing participating countries to trade electricity freely, SAPP encourages efficient power generation and reduces reliance on expensive and often polluting sources of energy. This competitive environment benefits Zimbabwe by ensuring access to affordable electricity and incentivizing investment in the energy sector.
Furthermore, Zimbabwe's involvement in SAPP strengthens its regional standing and fosters greater cooperation on broader economic and political issues. Energy security is a critical component of regional stability, and Zimbabwe's active participation in SAPP demonstrates its commitment to regional integration and development.
While SAPP offers numerous advantages, challenges remain, including coordinating diverse regulatory frameworks and ensuring equitable access to the benefits of regional energy trade.
However, Zimbabwe's commitment to SAPP and its proactive engagement in regional energy initiatives demonstrate its recognition of the importance of cooperation for achieving sustainable energy access and security in Southern Africa.
By working together with its neighbours, Zimbabwe can leverage the power of regional cooperation to build a more resilient and prosperous energy future.
ZIMBABWE RISKS POWER CRISIS LONG HAUL- PARLY COMMITTEE
THE Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Energy and Power Development has warned that Zimbabwe risks enduring prolonged power shortages if immediate strategies are not implemented to boost electricity generation.
In its latest report, released recently, the committee painted a bleak picture of the country’s energy production, indicating that the ongoing power crisis poses a major obstacle to economic growth.
Notable, the committee observed that Zimbabwe’s electricity supply strategy has been overly reliant on the Kariba South Power Station upgrade, a short-term solution vulnerable to water constraints.
This approach, it said has failed to address the country’s persistent electricity woes. Low water levels at the Kariba Dam due an El Niño-induced drought and continuous breakdowns at the Hwange Thermal Power Station have worsened power shortages in the country.
The country is currently generating about 1 200 MW of electricity, mostly from the coal-fired Hwange plant, against peak demand of nearly 2 000 MW. Added to that, global funding trends favouring renewable energy projects have limited Zimbabwe’s options for a balanced energy mix.
Added to that, global funding trends favouring renewable energy projects have limited Zimbabwe’s options for a balanced energy mix. “The committee observed the need for baseload power sources like thermal and nuclear plants to ensure stable electricity supply, while acknowledging the role of renewables in peak power generation,” reads part of the report.
Zimbabwe has abundant renewable energy sources including solar, wind, geothermal and hydro. The committee also said the country’s history of poor loan servicing has hindered access to affordable financing for power projects. “The committee noted that the Hwange and Kariba projects were procured at inflated costs contributing to high electricity tariffs.
“The committee cited that considering the state we are in as a country, if there are no strategies that are going to be implemented sooner to boost generation, the nation will be suffering for a long haul.”
Zimbabwe is pacing up its electricity generation capacity to keep up with increasing demand in the wake of increased economic activity which the Second Republic is ushering to ensure power shortages do not constrict growth.
Power demand is increasing in tandem with economic growth thereby putting pressure on the country to speed up development of domestic power generation. A major thermal energy investment at Hwange Power Station’s Units 7and 8, financed through US$1.5 billion in financial assistance from China was commissioned.
Government is also encouraging Independent Power Producers to complement its efforts to boost power generation and stop relying on imports. According to the committee report,
IPPs are playing a crucial role in the energy sector as most of them use various energy sources such as solar helping in diversifying the energy mix.
IPPs are contributing about 69 MW to the national grid. It said challenges hindering the efficient generation, transmission and distribution range from climate changes or variability, aging infrastructure theft and vandalism and high foreign currency obligations for loan repayments.
According to ZESA Holdings, the committee said the utility firm possess huge loan burden in renovating some of the units such as Kariba South Power Station (KSPS), which amounts to US$350 million.
“ZESA created a huge debt burden on the utility, including foreign currency commitments for loan repayments and spare parts purchase.
“Management added that repayments need to be done in foreign currency and they have resorted to exporting power in order to generate foreign currency,” reads the report in part.
The energy committee noted that in as much as the transmission and distribution lines are functioning well, ZESA management indicated during their mission that the country is still
facing serious power outages because the distribution supply of electricity is not meeting the nations demand.
The major challenge is of all power plants not producing their optimum capacity, it said.
“In addition, ZPC pointed out that KSPS is producing 250MW only, Hwange power station is producing 750MW and IPPs are adding 69MW making a total of 1079MW, which cannot sustain the whole nation yet the nation’s demand is from 1500MW to 2350MW.
“Furthermore, ZPC has resorted to importing power from the neighbouring countries like Namibia in order to reduce load shedding.”
Based on the committee recommendation, ZESA Holdings should be actively involved in attracting significant investments in refurbishing existing power plants and constructing new ones to overcome the overreliance on Kariba South and address the observed infrastructure deficiencies by 31 December, 2025.
It said the Ministry of Energy and Power Development should diversify the energy mix to mitigate the impact of water constraints on hydroelectric power and enhance overall system reliability by 31 December 2026.
“In this regard, the committee recommends for a strategic balance between base load power
sources such as thermal and nuclear and renewable energy like solar, wind and geothermal.” It urged the Energy ministry to invest in renewable energy projects in order to complement private sector efforts and address the funding constraints observed by 31 December 2025.
On the part of Treasury, it said it should timely disburse funds to service loans for power projects to ease Zimbabwe’s history of debt servicing challenges and improve the country’s creditworthiness and facilitate access to affordable energy financing.
To supplement current energy supplies, in late 2024, ZESA partnered with Titan Energy from China to construct a 720 MW coal thermal power plant in Hwange. The partnership will see Titan injecting a US$1 billion investment. In addition, Titan will set up a 200 MW solar plant in Gweru Phase 2.
The objectives of the enquiry were to establish the current capacity of power generation within the country, assess the overall state of electricity supply and distribution nationwide, identify and analyse the challenges hindering the efficient generation, transmission and distribution of electricity and propose appropriate recommendations.
HARNESSING THE POWER OF SUMMITS AND CONFERENCES TO ATTRACT
ENERGY SECTOR INVESTMENT
Zimbabwe is increasingly leveraging international summits and conferences as crucial platforms to attract much-needed investment in its energy sector. Recognizing the pivotal role of reliable and sustainable energy in driving economic growth, the government and industry stakeholders are actively participating in global events to showcase the country's potential and attract foreign direct investment.
These gatherings, like the recently held Zim-Zam Energy Summit, provide invaluable opportunities to engage with potential investors, technology providers, and policymakers, fostering collaborations and partnerships that can accelerate the development of Zimbabwe's energy infrastructure. Zimbabwe's energy sector presents a compelling investment case, with vast untapped renewable energy resources, including solar, wind, and hydropower.
The country is actively pursuing diversification of its energy mix, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote clean energy solutions. International summits and conferences serve as ideal platforms to highlight these opportunities, allowing Zimbabwe to present its strategic vision for the energy sector and outline the attractive incentives available to investors.Participation in these events also enables Zimbabwe to stay abreast of the latest technological advancements and global best practices in the energy industry.
Networking with experts and industry leaders provides valuable insights into innovative solutions and sustainable energy development models.
This knowledge exchange is crucial for shaping policies and regulatory frameworks that encourage investment and promote the growth of the energy sector.
Furthermore, these platforms offer a stage for Zimbabwe to showcase its commitment to creating a conducive investment climate. The government is actively working to streamline regulatory processes, improve transparency, and ensure investor confidence. By engaging with potential investors at international forums, Zimbabwe can effectively communicate its efforts to create a stable and predictable investment environment.
The benefits of participating in summits and conferences extend beyond attracting foreign investment. These events also provide opportunities to build relationships with international development institutions and explore potential funding mechanisms for energy projects. Access to climate finance and other forms of development assistance is crucial for supporting the implementation of large-scale renewable energy projects.
International summits and conferences play a vital role in Zimbabwe's efforts to attract investment in its energy sector. These platforms facilitate engagement with potential investors, promote the country's energy opportunities, and enable knowledge exchange. Zimbabwe’s active participation in these events, ensures that it positions itself as a destination for energy investment, paving the way for a sustainable and prosperous energy future.
