4 die as Midlands records 22 electricity accidents

THE Midlands Province recorded 22 electricity-related accidents last year, four of which resulted in fatalities.

According to the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (Zera), the accidents included nine non-fatal incidents, four cases involving livestock, and nine fire-related incidents.

Speaking at a recent stakeholder education and awareness meeting at Chaka Business Centre in Chirumhanzu, Zera’s Midlands electrical inspector, Engineer Wellington Nyamakawo, stressed the need for increased caution when handling electricity, particularly at the household level.

“In 2024, the Midlands Province recorded 22 electricity-related accidents, including four fatalities. The primary causes were infrastructure failure, especially fallen poles, which led to people and livestock coming into contact with live electrical conductors,” he said.

Eng Nyamakawo noted that some incidents were due to negligence and failure to adhere to safety protocols.

“For instance, some people would leave faulty stoves on during load shedding, only to return and find their homes engulfed in flames,” he said.

Eng Nyamakawo also highlighted the danger posed to livestock, which can be electrocuted after coming into contact with downed power lines.

Despite these accidents, Zera noted a decline in incidents compared to previous years, attributing this to increased public awareness efforts.

“Although we have seen a reduction in accidents, we urge the public to exercise extra caution, especially during the rainy season, which can cause power lines to fall and create serious hazards,” said Eng Nyamakawo.

He expressed optimism that accident numbers would continue to decrease by the end of this year.

Zera consumer services manager, Engineer Samuel Ngoni Zaranyika, underscored the need for ongoing public education on electrical safety and responsible energy use.

He said they have scheduled 76 awareness meetings for 2025, covering all districts in the country. The Midlands Province will host 19 of these meetings.

Eng Zaranyika explained that rural communities often lack knowledge on energy safety and complaint-handling processes.

“For example, residents of Chirumhanzu were unaware of the correct procedures for reporting energy-related issues. This awareness campaign will ensure they now have access to the right channels,” he said.

Eng Zaranyika also noted that some businesses in the area were still selling banned incandescent bulbs.

“We will intensify inspections to ensure these products are completely removed from local shops. Zera remains committed to enforcing safety regulations and ensuring compliance,” he said.

To extend the reach of its awareness efforts, Zera plans to complement community meetings with roadshows. Villagers were also educated on topics such as vandalism, liquid petroleum gas (LPG), biogas digesters, and other energy-related issues.