Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere
Senior Reporter
The upcoming 2026 edition of the SADC Sustainable Energy Week is expected to catalyse economic growth by boosting tourism and hospitality ventures, while attracting new investments and business opportunities, Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Zhemu Soda said after yesterday’s Cabinet meeting.
The SADC Sustainable Energy Week will be held in Victoria Falls from February 23 to 27, under the theme: “Driving regional economic growth through clean energy and energy efficiency.”
President Mnangagwa is scheduled to officiate at the opening ceremony and is expected to tour exhibition stands and deliver a keynote address.
Minister Soda said the event seeks to strengthen regional leadership, enhance visibility, facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity development, while fostering strategic diplomatic partnerships and re-engagement initiatives.
“The SADC Sustainable Energy Week will serve as a platform to bring together diverse stakeholders in the energy sector, including regional institutions, Government agencies, private-sector players, academia, and development partners,” said Minister Soda.
“An estimated 500 delegates from around the world are expected to participate in the event. The conference will be distinguished by the presence of high-profile dignitaries, including the SADC Executive Secretary (Mr Elias Magosi), African Union Commissioners, presidents of Africa Energy Week, and leaders from prominent organisations.”
Minister Soda highlighted the numerous benefits Zimbabwe stands to gain from hosting such a prestigious event, including stimulating economic growth through increased tourism and hospitality activities, attracting new investments, enhancing regional leadership, facilitating knowledge transfer, and strengthening diplomatic ties.
The SADC Sustainable Energy Week programme will feature parallel sessions during its first two days, leading up to the official opening ceremony on the third day.
The conference will continue on the fourth day, culminating in energy project site visits in the morning and excursions in the afternoon on the final day.
“Hosting this prestigious event provides significant advantages for the Government of Zimbabwe and its various sectors,” said Minister Soda.
“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.
“The SADC Sustainable Energy Week programme, along with side events, will feature parallel sessions during the first two days,” said Minister Soda.
