Chronicle Editor
Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu, [email protected]
RESIDENTS of Spitzkop North in Gwanda, who have endured years without power, have mobilised resources to collaborate with the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) to electrify over 1 200 houses in the suburb.
The electrification project is being implemented in phases, with the first phase having successfully connected 100 houses.
Ms Caroline Nyathi, a resident since 2014, shared her experiences of living without electricity.
“It’s been difficult to store perishables. Initially, we relied on candles and paraffin stoves until I bought a gas stove and started using solar lights,” she said.
As an informal trader, she noted that having electricity would significantly aid her business by allowing her to store drinks and other products.
Another resident, whose home is still awaiting connection, said she has begun mobilising funds.
“Criminals often take advantage of the darkness. While some use solar energy, others still rely on candles,” she said.
Mr Jonathan Sibanda, chairperson of the residents’ committee, said: “In January 2022, we began our journey to electrify 1 229 houses by dividing the area into 10 sections for easier project implementation.
“Through door-to-door campaigns and meetings, we got all residents on board.”
Zesa Gwanda depot manager, Mr Kwanele Khanye, confirmed the collaborative effort between the community and the power utility stating that some houses have been connected, with more to follow.
Zesa has provided power lines and other necessary equipment.
Efforts are also underway to electrify other suburbs in Gwanda through similar community collaborations. Gwanda mayor, Alderman Thulani Moyo, who commissioned the electrification process, praised the residents’ dedication and called for this commitment to be replicated across the town.
“The work done here is a testament to the great results achievable through community initiative, reflecting President Mnangagwa’s philosophy ‘ilizwe lakhiwa ngabanikazi balo,” he said.
“Gone are the days when we were supposed to sit down and wait for Government to bring development to our area.
The lighting of this suburb shows that as a community we are the catalysts for our own development,” he said.
“The lighting of this suburb is evidence that communities can be the catalysts for their own development, aligning with the National Development Strategy 1, which prioritises providing reliable and low-cost energy access to support economic growth and stability.” —@DubeMatutu
Online Reporter