Online Reporter
Sikhulekelani Moyo [email protected]
MATABELELAND South Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Albert Nguluvhe has said Zimbabwe’s development trajectory calls for accelerated infrastructure development, modernisation of energy systems, and increased investment in both conventional and renewable energy sources.
The sentiments were made during the two day Renewable Energy Conference which started on Thursday in Esigodini.
In a speech, which was ready on his behalf by Matabeleland South provincial director for infrastructure development and environment, Mr Daniel Njowa, Minister Nguluvhe said various provinces hold immense potential and strategic importance in energy development.
He said the region represents significant opportunities for energy development, particularly in solar energy generation, given its climatic condition.
“As we gather here today, we do so at a critical time. The energy sector is facing pressing challenges, including increasing demand, infrastructure constraints, and the global imperative to transition towards cleaner energy systems,” said Minister Nguluvhe.
“This conflict provides us with a valuable platform to engage, reflect, and collaborate. As the office responsible for provincial affairs and devolution, we affirm our commitment to creating an enabling environment that supports investment, enhances efficiency, and promotes inclusive and sustainable energy development across Matabeleland South province.”
The Minister encouraged all participants to actively engage in the discussions, share insights and contribute to shaping a resilient and forward-looking energy sector.
The Renewable Energy Conference, which was organised by New Dubai Development Group in partnership with Ministry of Energy and Power Development is running under the theme: “Renewable Energy for All: Empowering Communities, Agriculture, and Industry Towards 2030”.
New Dubal Development Group director Dr Tinashe Sekeramai said the country has potential in all sectors but they are failing to access energy, which he said is also increasing cost of doing business, as businesses end up depending on fuel.
Dr Sekeramai called upon all Rural Development Councils with land to partner and invest in solar farms to improve production in different communities.
“We have small scale miners who are far from the national grid, they end up turning to fuel, and if prices increases then it affects productivity,” said Dr Sekeramai.
“As a province, we have potential for solar power production.”
The conference has seen Rural District Councils across the country attending, private and public sector energy players and other stakeholders in the sector.
