Online Reporter
Online Reporter
EPCM (Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Management) specialist Tonga Tron has begun exploring potential sites in Matabeleland as it positions itself for entry into Zimbabwe’s renewable energy sector, with a particular focus on solar power generation.
The company, which has earned a reputation for delivering large-scale engineering and infrastructure projects, is now turning its project management expertise toward addressing the country’s persistent energy deficit. Feasibility studies are underway in parts of Matabeleland North and South, targeting areas with strong solar potential and sufficient land for utility-scale projects.
Chief Executive Mr Ronald Magumise said the company sees renewable energy as both a national need and a strategic growth frontier.
“Matabeleland offers some of the best solar irradiance levels in the country. Our exploration of sites in the region is the first step in what we see as a major contribution to both the national grid and local economic development,” said Mr Magumise.
He explained that the company is not only focused on technical viability but is also engaging local stakeholders to ensure broad-based impact.
“We are not just looking for suitable land. We are engaging with local authorities, regulators, and communities to ensure our projects create jobs, open up value chains, and leave a lasting impact in Matabeleland,” he said.
Zimbabwe has long struggled with power shortages, with demand estimated at more than 2,000MW against an average supply of less than 1,400MW. The deficit has forced the country to import power from neighbours like South Africa and Mozambique, often at a premium. Frequent load shedding has constrained productivity across key industries while also affecting households.
Experts say the southern regions of Zimbabwe, including Matabeleland, hold significant promise for solar generation because of high levels of sunshine throughout the year, low population density in many areas, and available land for scaling up projects.
Tonga Tron’s decision to enter the renewable energy market is backed by its experience as an EPCM firm. Unlike traditional contractors, EPCM companies offer end-to-end delivery—from engineering design and procurement of equipment to construction oversight and management of operations.
Mr Magumise said this model gives Tonga Tron a competitive edge in executing projects of this scale.
“We can take projects from concept to commissioning. Our role is to bring world-class project management to renewable energy in Zimbabwe. Investors want assurance that projects will be delivered on time, within budget, and to specification. That is the strength we are bringing into solar,” he said.
The government’s National Renewable Energy Policy aims to see renewables contribute at least 16% of generation capacity by 2025, creating space for private sector investment in solar, hydro, and wind. Several independent power producers have been licensed, but progress has been slow, mainly due to financing challenges and regulatory hurdles.
Industry analysts believe that Tonga Tron’s established technical track record could help it attract both local and international investors, particularly development finance institutions looking for credible private partners in Africa’s energy transition.
In addition to national grid supply, Tonga Tron says its projects will explore opportunities for community-linked solar power, including mini-grids and off-grid solutions for rural areas.
“Reliable energy is transformative at every level—from powering schools and clinics to enabling small-scale industries. We want our projects to serve not only the national grid but also local communities who often get left behind,” said Mr Magumise.
The company also highlighted potential spillover benefits, including the creation of local employment during construction phases, training opportunities for engineers and technicians, and business for local suppliers.
While Tonga Tron has not yet disclosed the expected capacity of its first projects, the company says announcements will follow once feasibility studies are completed and regulatory approvals are in place. Sources within the company suggest that pilot projects could range between 20MW and 50MW, with scalability built into the design for future expansion.
Mr Magumise said the company’s entry into the sector is not a short-term play but part of a long-term strategy to establish Tonga Tron as a leading energy partner in Southern Africa.
“This is about building lasting infrastructure that powers growth. Tonga Tron is here to stay in the renewable energy space,” he said.
If successful, Tonga Tron’s Matabeleland projects could serve as a blueprint for other renewable energy ventures across the country and position the firm as a pivotal player in Zimbabwe’s transition towards clean energy.
