SADC energy indaba to stimulate economic growth

THE hosting of the 2026 SADC Sustainable Energy Week is expected to stimulate economic growth through heightened tourism and hospitality activities, attract new investments and business prospects as well as strengthening regional leadership and visibility for mutually beneficial outcomes.

The high-level event is scheduled for Victoria Falls from February 23 to 27, 2026 and is expected to be officially opened by President Mnangagwa.

Speaking during a post-Cabinet briefing yesterday, the Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Dr Zhemu Soda said the 2026 edition is expected to attract an estimated 500 delegates from around the world under the theme: “Driving Regional Economic Growth Through Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency”.

The SADC Sustainable Energy Week serves as a high-level platform convening diverse stakeholders in the energy sector, including regional institutions, Government agencies, private sector players, academia and development partners.

According to Minister Soda, the gathering will be distinguished by the presence of high-profile dignitaries, including the SADC Executive Secretary, African union Commissioners, and presidents of Africa Energy Week.

Cabinet yesterday highlighted that the hosting of the event carries significant advantages for Zimbabwe. “These benefits encompass the following: stimulating economic growth through heightened tourism and hospitality activities, attracting new investments and business prospects, strengthening regional leadership and visibility, facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity development, and fostering strategic diplomatic partnerships and re-engagement initiatives,” said Dr Soda.

The influx of delegates is expected to provide a major boost to the hospitality sector in Victoria Falls which include hotels and tour operators. The event will also feature a dedicated day for excursions, allowing visitors to experience one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, further cementing the resort town’s status as a premier destination for business tourism. Beyond the immediate economic activity, the Government views the week as a critical avenue for attracting foreign direct investment into Zimbabwe’s energy sector. By showcasing the country’s commitment to renewable energy and energy efficiency, the forum provides a platform to pitch bankable projects to international financiers and private equity.

The programme for the week is structured to maximise engagement, featuring parallel sessions during the first two days.

The official opening ceremony to be presided over by President Mnangagwa is scheduled for the third day.

President Mnangagwa is also expected to tour exhibition stands before delivering his keynote address. “Conference sessions will continue on the fourth day, while the fifth day will be dedicated to energy projects site visits in the morning, followed by excursions,” said Minister Soda.

With the global shift towards clean energy accelerating, Zimbabwe’s role as host of the SADC Energy Week Indaba underscores its ambition to position itself as a leader in the regional green transition, leveraging strategic partnerships to power future economic growth.