Staff Reporter
Zimbabwe has launched an ambitious five-year energy roadmap aimed at raising over US$16 billion to meet rising electricity demand and ensure universal power access by 2030. The National Energy Compact Draft, presented to stakeholders this Wednesday, outlines the country’s comprehensive strategy to enhance energy generation, expand grid access, and promote the adoption of renewable energy sources.
Of the total capital investment, more than US$11 billion is earmarked for power generation projects, while the remainder will fund initiatives, such as solar energy, clean cooking technologies, and improved grid connectivity. This strategic shift comes amid growing concerns over Zimbabwe’s current electricity access, which hovers around 60 percent, and the urgent need to meet the increasing energy demand of households, industries, and public institutions.
The roadmap signals a strong commitment from the government to scale up infrastructure development by partnering the private sector and international financiers.
Speaking at the stakeholder engagement, the Minister of Energy and Power Development, July Moyo, underscored the importance of collaboration in bringing the plan to fruition. He noted that the draft has already received attention from key players, including Parliament and the Presidency.
“This Draft Document has also been discussed with parliamentarians and the President is aware of our deliberations. The purpose of today’s engagement is to collaborate with all key stakeholders to finalise the document. Given the magnitude of interest from development partners and the private sector, it is imperative that we move ahead with implementation, focusing on long-term energy strategies,” said Minister Moyo.
Support from the international community is also gathering momentum. The World Bank has expressed a strong interest in backing Zimbabwe’s energy plan, both technically and financially.
World Bank Zimbabwe Country Manager, Ms Eneida Fernandes, highlighted the importance of donor confidence and stakeholder unity.
“We are keen to support this initiative and provide the necessary assistance to catalyse further investment. The level of engagement seen today gives us confidence that Zimbabwe is serious about resolving its power challenges,” she said.
Private sector players have also shown readiness to participate, especially in the renewable energy sector.
Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) Chairperson, Dr David Madzikanda, noted that several licenced investors are eager to invest in power projects. He stressed that Zimbabwe must not lag behind as the global energy landscape shifts toward universal electricity access and carbon neutrality.
The draft plan outlines key areas of focus, including public-private partnerships, low-carbon technologies, renewable energy development, and cost-effective electricity distribution. The document is set to be reviewed by relevant authorities before adoption, marking a major step in Zimbabwe’s quest for sustainable energy security.
As the country moves to modernise its energy infrastructure and reduce reliance on fossil fuels, the roadmap offers a beacon of hope for economic transformation and improved livelihoods driven by reliable and inclusive power systems.
