daniel chigunwe
Business Writer
The construction sector in Zimbabwe is reeling under the effects of persistent electricity shortages, which are severely hampering its capacity to produce key raw materials for both domestic use and export.
Industry experts express concerns that the ongoing power supply issues have become a major obstacle to manufacturing and value addition in the sector, particularly at a time when local businesses are aiming to tap into export markets.
Tinashe Manzungu, President of the Zimbabwe Building Contractors Association (ZBCA), spoke to BH 24 about the challenges the industry faces due to unreliable electricity.
He explained that despite the desire to produce materials for export, the constant power outages have rendered it nearly impossible for local companies to operate their machinery effectively.
“We have not been able to operate efficiently because of power supply shortages within the country,” said Manzungu.
The impact is not limited to exports, as the shortage also affects the availability of materials used in domestic construction projects.
Manzungu pointed out that the industry has made a deliberate decision to reduce dependence on imported materials, choosing instead to manufacture items such as IBR roofing sheets and bricks locally. However, this strategy is undermined by power shortages that disrupt production.
“For example, IBR, roofing sheets, the issues with our brick moulding plants, and so forth, are different other materials that we use in the building industry,” Manzungu added.
Zimbabwe’s electricity crisis stems from several factors, including water shortages affecting hydropower generation, outdated infrastructure, inadequate maintenance, and foreign currency shortages.
Additionally, the country has been forced to rely on expensive electricity imports to meet demand, which only partially fills the gap.
According to economist Tinevimbo Shava, the situation could have far-reaching consequences for the economy.
“Power shortages are not just a setback for the construction industry but for the entire manufacturing sector. When industries operate at reduced capacity, the ripple effect is felt across supply chains.”
Shava also emphasised the need for long-term solutions, “Addressing the electricity issue requires not just short-term fixes but significant investment in sustainable energy infrastructure.”
Manzungu estimated that the sector is currently operating at only 30 to 40 percent of its production capacity, making it difficult to meet market demands. This shortfall threatens the industry’s ability to contribute to broader economic growth, particularly in the construction of vital infrastructure and housing projects.
Bongani Ndlovu