Teen student on attachment fatally electrocuted in Budiriro

Trust Freddy

Online Correspondent

A 19-year-old student on industrial attachment from Mutoko was fatally electrocuted on Wednesday in Budiriro 1 Extension, Harare, while reportedly working on a Medium Voltage (MV) line extension.

The tragedy struck while the deceased, whose name has not yet been officially released, was performing duties for an unidentified private contractor.

The work reportedly involved extending the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC)’s MV network.

“The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) is profoundly saddened to confirm a tragic electrocution incident that occurred on Wednesday October 22 2025 in Budiriro 1 Extension, resulting in the death of a young man,” ZETDC said in a statement.

“ZETDC extends its deepest and most sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the 19-year-old student, who was reportedly attached to a private contractor.”

ZETDC denied having any knowledge of the work or having granted authorisation for the contractor to operate on their lines.

“ZETDC’s preliminary investigations have established that ZETDC had not issued a permit or authorisation for any work on the Medium Voltage (MV) line at this location. The contractor was operating outside of ZETDC’s jurisdiction and safety protocols,” it said.

“The safety of our customers and the public remains our highest priority. We urge everyone to engage ZETDC for all electrical works on the electricity grid.”

National Police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said he was yet to receive a report on the incident.