Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is gearing up for the SADC Sustainable Energy Week 2026, a high-level regional platform expected to accelerate economic growth through clean energy and improved energy efficiency across member states.
Running from February 23 to 27, 2026, in Victoria Falls, the event will be held under the theme: “Driving Regional Economic Growth Through Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency.”
The week-long gathering is positioning itself as the region’s definitive forum for energy policy, investment and innovation.
In a statement, the organisers said the conference will bring together policymakers, investors, utilities, financiers, developers and development partners to tackle energy access challenges and unlock sustainable economic growth.
“The 2026 SADC Sustainable Energy Week, is designed to advance clean energy, energy efficiency and sustainable economic growth across the SADC region,” reads the statement.
“The region continues to face rising electricity demand, constrained generation and transmission capacity and unequal access to modern energy services. This platform promotes policy coherence, mobilises investment and strengthens regional power integration.”
The event is being jointly hosted by the Ministry of Energy and Power Development (MoEPD), the SADC Secretariat and the SADC Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SACREEE).
The conference will focus on key thematic areas including policy, governance and regional energy cooperation; universal access and a just energy transition; financing, entrepreneurship and innovation; renewable energy technologies and industrialisation; and energy efficiency and sustainable industry.
An exhibition will run alongside the conference, showcasing cutting-edge clean energy technologies, services and solutions while sponsorship and partnership opportunities will allow corporates and institutions to align with regional sustainability initiatives.
The week will also feature the 2026 SADC Sustainable Energy Week Awards, which will recognise excellence in sustainable energy development, energy efficiency, private sector leadership and innovative financing across the region.
High-level political engagement is expected, with the official opening to be officiated by President Mnangagwa alongside SADC energy ministers and senior regional leaders.
In addition to policy and investment discussions, the programme includes a SADC Golf Challenge, described as a networking platform aimed at fostering partnerships and collaboration among regional energy stakeholders.
The event shows SADC’s commitment to transforming its energy landscape as a foundation for industrialisation, economic growth and improved livelihoods.
Registration for the SADC Sustainable Energy Week 2026 is now open, with stakeholders encouraged to secure their place in shaping the region’s energy future.
Peter Tanyanyiwa