Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Zimpapers Writer
ZESA Holdings has raised the alarm over a surge in vandalism and theft of its infrastructure, which has plunged thousands of households and businesses into prolonged darkness and cost the utility millions of dollars annually.
The power utility issued the warning during the recently concluded Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), where its Stakeholder Relations Department highlighted the growing crisis and called for a multi-pronged response involving tighter law enforcement, heightened community vigilance and increased public awareness.
“As highlighted in our recent public awareness campaign, ‘Stop Vandalism: Let’s Protect Our Infrastructure!’, the consequences of this criminal activity are far-reaching,” said Zesa.
“This destructive trend is not only plunging thousands into darkness but also severely hindering national development and costing the utility millions of dollars every year.”
Power outages caused by vandalism have disrupted daily life, crippled businesses and placed essential services at serious risk. According to Zesa, more than 21 000 customers have endured outages lasting up to 10 or more months, following the theft and destruction of 1 500 transformers, 600 kilometres of conductor, and 116 kilometres of medium voltage cable.
The financial cost is staggering. Zesa is losing over US$5 million annually due to infrastructure damage, and an additional US$1,5 million per month in potential revenue. Replacing the vandalised transformers alone requires approximately US$13 million.
The situation is exacerbated by the shortage of foreign currency, which has made it difficult to procure critical spare parts leading to prolonged delays in service restoration.
Despite these challenges, Zesa stated it has not remained passive. The utility is working closely with law enforcement and has embarked on joint patrols with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).
However, the vast geographical spread of Zesa’s infrastructure makes it impossible to monitor every installation round the clock.
Zesa said the audacity and sophistication of these thieves is deeply troubling.
“Despite the stiff penalties of up to 10 years’ imprisonment for such offences, the acts of vandalism persist. This blatant disregard for the law underscores the urgent need for a multi-pronged approach involving stricter enforcement, community vigilance and public awareness,” Zesa said.
The utility warned that the crisis is now affecting its ability to connect new customers as the limited resources are being redirected towards replacing stolen and damaged infrastructure.
“This is more than a power issue, it’s a developmental crisis. Without coordinated action, the damage will only deepen,” the utility stressed.
