Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Senior Zimpapers Writer
ZIMBABWE Electricity Supply Authority Executive Chairman, Dr Sydney Gata has died.
Dr Gata, a towering figure in the energy sector, died on Thursday after a short illness.
In a statement, ZESA Holdings described Dr Gata as a distinguished expert in energy, power, and infrastructure development whose legacy is marked by unwavering commitment to national progress.
“It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we share the news of the untimely passing on of Dr Sydney Zikuzo Gata, a distinguished energy, power, and infrastructure development specialist, and the Executive Chairman of ZESA Holdings,” said the power utility.
ZESA said Dr Gata dedicated his life to advancing sustainable energy solutions and infrastructure development, and his leadership transformed the organisation during some of its most challenging times.
“His illustrious career spanned several decades, during which he served as a beacon of hope for the nation and an inspiration to many,” read the statement.
“Dr Gata’s visionary approach saw the introduction of strategic reforms that improved service delivery, and he remained passionate about the welfare of the entire ZESA family.”
A trailblazer in the power industry, Dr Gata made history as the first black General Manager of the Electricity Supply Commission (ESC) from 1981 to 1985.
He later served as CEO and board member of ZESA during the mid-1980s to early 1990s, before being appointed Executive Chairman of ZESA in 2001 until 2006.
Dr Gata returned to the role in November 2019 and served until his passing.
Before his leadership in the power sector, Dr Gata made notable contributions in academia between 1976 and 1981.
Dr Gata lectured in Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering at Chelsea College of Aeronautical Engineering in London and at the City University Department of Mechanical Engineering and Aeronautics in the United Kingdom.
He later joined the University of Zimbabwe’s Faculty of Engineering from 1981 to 1982.
On the global stage, Dr Gata served as a board member of the World Energy Council (WEC) between 1992 and 1994 and was Deputy Chairman of the WEC Studies Committee.
Dr Gata also held advisory and board roles with the African Development Bank and Integrated Energy Systems Ltd (UK), among others.
He is survived by his wife, the Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Angeline Gata, children and grandchildren.
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