ZESA Holdings has thrown down the gauntlet with an ambitious strategy aimed at eradicating load-shedding by next year and achieving universal electricity access across Zimbabwe by 2030. In a candid interview with The Herald, ZESA executive chairman Dr. Sydney Gata laid out a roadmap that hinges on local manufacturing, international partnerships, and a keen focus on operational efficiency. This isn’t just a pie-in-the-sky vision; it’s a detailed plan that could reshape the energy landscape in Zimbabwe.
Dr. Gata’s vision is crystal clear: the goal is to bolster energy security, stimulate economic growth, and ultimately uplift living standards. By streamlining ZESA’s subsidiaries, the organization aims to create a more cohesive approach to energy management and distribution. “With the measures we’ve taken, we now have positive investments across the energy sector,” he said, signaling a shift that could redefine how energy is produced and consumed in the country. The strategy also seeks to alleviate the financial burden on the government by shifting the energy supply responsibilities to large-scale consumers, particularly mining companies capable of investing in their own power sources. This mirrors a successful approach in the fuel sector, where private importation has significantly eased demand pressures.
What’s particularly noteworthy is the phased nature of this strategy, which outlines ambitious milestones. The immediate focus is on clearing the backlog of electricity connections by 2026, a crucial step toward ensuring that every Zimbabwean has access to power. By 2027, ZESA aims to end power imports, with a bold vision of becoming a net exporter by 2028. The ultimate goal is to hit world-class energy standards by 2029 and achieve universal access by 2030.
Infrastructure investment is the linchpin of this ambitious plan. Dr. Gata announced the imminent launch of six new captive power plants, boasting a combined output of over 1,000 MW. On top of that, nine new power stations are set to break ground, expected to add an impressive 2,690 MW—nearly doubling Zimbabwe’s current dependable capacity. This kind of growth is not merely aspirational; it’s a game-changer for a nation that has grappled with energy shortages for far too long.
The collaboration with a UAE-based firm to manufacture critical hardware locally, including cables and conductors, is another significant step. Dr. Gata highlighted that this move would replace aging infrastructure, including a staggering 24,000 kilometers of deteriorated underground cables. While he acknowledged the challenges posed by sanctions and the fluctuating hydrology of the Kariba dam, which has slashed generation capacity from 1,050 MW to just 150 MW, the focus remains on building a robust, locally controlled energy system.
“This plan is a long-term investment for Zimbabwe’s future, ensuring reliable, locally controlled energy that benefits generations to come,” Dr. Gata concluded. This ambitious strategy not only aims to solve immediate energy issues but also lays a foundation for sustainable growth and resilience in the face of future challenges. As the country gears up for this transformative journey, the implications for energy security, economic development, and social equity are profound. The stakes are high, but with a clear vision and strategic partnerships, Zimbabwe could very well turn the tide in its energy narrative.
