Moffat Mungazi
Lloyd Makonya
Correspondent
AMIDST last week’s chaos and developments in Eastern Congo, where M23 rebels romped into Goma in particular, a key summit on energy was being held in the neighbouring United Republic of Tanzania.
The just-concluded Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam marks a crucial turning point in the way Africa approaches its energy challenges.
This high-level gathering underscored the need for a shift from fragmented national strategies to a more unified continental approach, underpinned by strong financial commitments and political will.
Africa faces a dire energy crisis, with nearly 600 million people representing 83 percent of the global electricity deficit lacking access to reliable power.
The Mission 300 initiative, spearheaded by the Africa Union, World Bank Group and the African Development Bank, seeks to address this deficit by connecting 300 million people to electricity by 2030, brought together Heads of State, private sector leaders and civil society.
The strategy involves expanding electricity grids, deploying mini-grids, and investing in standalone renewable energy solutions, such as solar power.
This initiative is set to transform lives, drive economic growth, and contribute to Africa’s climate goals by reducing dependence on polluting fossil fuels like diesel and kerosene.
Access to electricity is not just about powering homes, it is a catalyst for industrialisation, improved healthcare, and education.
In rural communities, reliable energy will enable businesses to thrive, hospitals to function efficiently, and schools to enhance digital learning.
By committing to energy access as a top priority, African leaders are setting the stage for sustainable economic transformation.
In her opening remarks at the summit, President Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania said: “This summit goes beyond energy access. It is about empowering families, lifting millions out of poverty and providing hope and opportunities for youth.”
President Mnangagwa in a speech read at the summit on his behalf by Energy and Power Development Minister, Honourable July Moyo challenged fellow leaders to consider the plight of those living without electricity.
“Think about the child using candles to study, the pregnant lady delivering a baby in darkness and the household without portable water. This situation is typical of many countries in Africa, and the major cause is failure to access electricity services,” he said.
He further invited private investors to consider partnering Zimbabwe in developing its energy sector as Zimbabwe offers favourable tax incentives and cost reflective tariffs.
Zimbabwe’s energy sector development agenda aligns closely with the objectives of Mission 300.
Government has prioritised increasing electricity generation capacity, improving transmission infrastructure, and expanding renewable energy investments. Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, which seeks to achieve an upper middle-income economy, recognizes the critical role of energy in industrialization and economic development.
The National Renewable Energy Policy led by the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, not only focuses on expanding access to energy, but also addresses climate change concerns and reinforces Zimbabwe’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in line with global efforts.
The country possesses vast renewable energy resources, including solar, hydro, biomass, and, to a limited extent, wind and geothermal energy, most of which have largely remained unexploited to date.
Manicaland Province also plays a strategic role in Zimbabwe’s renewable energy landscape, particularly in hydroelectric power generation.
Nyanga Mini-Hydro Power Station, Eastern Highlands, Duru, Pungwe, Tsanga B and Rusitu hydro-electric projects are examples of how the province is harnessing river systems to generate clean and sustainable power for surrounding communities.
Additionally, plans to develop the Osborne Dam mini-hydro power plant forms part of the province’s broader push toward renewable energy and is expected to contribute significantly to the national grid.
At the national level, Zimbabwe is undertaking major power infrastructure projects to increase electricity generation capacity.
The Hwange Thermal Power Station expansion has added 600MW to the national grid, reducing reliance on imports and improving energy security.
The recent capacity upgrade at Kariba South Power Station coupled with improved rains will enhance Zimbabwe’s hydroelectric output and it is hoped that this will aid in providing a stable energy supply during peak periods. Furthermore, solar projects in Gwanda and Bulawayo reflect the country’s commitment to diversifying its energy mix through renewable sources.
The Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit is a transformative initiative that will accelerate energy access across the continent.
For Zimbabwe, this aligns perfectly with ongoing efforts to enhance electricity generation, promote renewable energy, and support economic growth.
As Zimbabwe continues to invest in its energy sector, it remains a crucial player in Africa’s journey towards universal electricity access and sustainable development.
Online Reporter