Online Reporter
Online Reporter
AFRICA UNIVERSITY (AU) on Friday commissioned a 600-kilowatt solar plant, which is touted as the biggest solar project in Manicaland province.
The plant was set up in a record time of just 26 days, with the university saying it plans to increase its capacity to 1,4 megawatts (MW) by October this year.
Manicaland Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Advocate Misheck Mugadza officially launched the solar plant at a ceremony held at the university’s campus.
In his remarks, Advocate Mugadza said the solar plant shows that AU is assisting the Government in its quest to attain Vision 2030.
“Through its trailblazing programmes, generous scholarships and bold research agenda, Africa University is working hand in hand with the Government of Zimbabwe in advancing national priorities and Vision 2030. A cornerstone of that vision is provincial development, ensuring that every corner of Zimbabwe contributes to and benefits from our growth,” he said.
“It is with great pride and honour that I stand before you today representing His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr ED Mnangagwa, and the Government of Zimbabwe as you make history on this campus. We gather to celebrate not just a milestone, but a movement, one that Africa University has consistently led with passion, excellence and purpose.”
The university, Minister Mugadza said, stands not only as an academic institution, but as a key development partner.
“You have made history in Manicaland. At Victoria Chitepo, we have 150 kilowatts. At Mutambara, we have 150 kilowatts. In Chipinge, 200 kilowatts. Verify Engineering, 200 kilowatts. Hillcrest, 200 kilowatts . . . Africa University, over 500 kilowatts.
“As Manicaland’s premier institution of higher learning and one of the continent’s most celebrated academic centres, Africa University continues to make us proud.”
In his remarks, AU Vice Chancellor Professor Peter Mageto said: “The launch of the solar plant is a declaration that Africa University is investing not only in renewable energy but in the future of our people.
“Today signifies the vision our people have held and is part of our five-year strategic plan . . . This is one of the indicators we have achieved today.”
AU Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Talon Garikayi said the 600-kilowatt plant is the first of three phases as the university is targeting to generate 1,4MW.
He said the solar plant will eliminate the AU’s electricity bill, which stood at over US$200 000 annually.
These savings, he said, will now be channelled towards more scholarships for students and infrastructure development at the university.
Tinaye Agere