Energy reforms to drive industrialisation and end power deficits: VP Chiwenga
Rutendo Nyeve
VICE President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has reaffirmed the liberalisation of Zimbabwe’s energy sector which is aimed at fast-tracking universal electricity access by 2030, tackling energy deficits and driving industrialisation. Officially opening the second edition of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Sustainable Energy Week in Victoria Falls on Wednesday, Vice President Chiwenga said the Government is implementing a policy shift designed to attract private capital and expand the national grid. “Under National Development Strategy 2 and our Energy Compact, as we pursue universal access by 2030, we are liberalizing generation to attract Independent Power Producers; enabling direct power purchase agreements; expanding private sector participation in transmission and distribution; accelerating rural electrification targeting universal coverage of schools and clinics; and mobilising domestic capital through structured engagement with local financial institutions,” VP Chiwenga said. This strategy aims to lift the country’s current electricity access rate, which stands at approximately 62 percent, with rural access just above 20 percent. ReadMore