Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Beitbridge
Minister of Energy and Power Development July Moyo has commended President Mnangagwa for spearheading the rural electrification programme across the country, saying the initiative is in line with the Government’s vision of leaving no one and no place behind.
Speaking inside a battery storage facility after touring the 120-kilowatt Tshitulipasi Community Mini Grid Solar Project in Beitbridge on Thursday morning, Minister Moyo said the Second Republic was accelerating efforts to ensure that even the country’s most remote communities gain access to electricity through projects being implemented by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA).
He said President Mnangagwa had directed that rural electrification efforts should not be confined to easily accessible areas but should also target marginalised communities that have traditionally lacked access to power.
Said Minister Moyo: “President Mnangagwa said REA should also targeting areas which are considered remote to electrify those regions such as Tshitulipasi through installation of solar.”
He said the commissioning of the Tshitulipasi solar mini-grid demonstrated that modern energy solutions could effectively bridge the electricity access gap in rural areas.
“We are to able to have electricity at local shops, schools especially this year when we are targeting to electrify all rural schools,” said Minister Moyo.
He added that the Government was also prioritising the electrification of healthcare facilities to improve service delivery in rural communities.
“Also clinics and hospitals in rural areas should have electricity.”
Minister Moyo said the successful implementation of the Tshitulipasi project provided proof that solar energy was a viable solution for expanding electricity access in remote parts of the country.
“What has happened here shows that we are able to electrify all areas through solar.”
The project is expected to transform livelihoods in Tshitulipasi by improving access to power for businesses, institutions and households, while creating opportunities for income-generating activities.
Showing the project’s impact on local commerce, Minister Moyo said: “The business community, the 19 of them now have electricity.”
He said access to reliable power would unlock economic opportunities for young people and contribute to the fight against drug and substance abuse.
“Its now possible that youths can ve organised and venture onto various peojects such as welding. They will be empployed and shun drugs.”
The Tshitulipasi Community Mini Grid Solar Project is one of several renewable energy initiatives being rolled out by REA as Government intensifies efforts to achieve universal access to electricity and promote rural industrialisation.
Minister Moyo was accompanied by Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Albert Nguluvhe, REA acting chief executive officer Felista Makumbinde, Government officials and local leadership.
The project is expected to enhance economic activity, improve access to essential services and support rural development in line with the Government’s broader vision of inclusive national growth.
