Story by Kudzai Gumbo
ZIMBABWE’S energy sector boldly stepped into the international spotlight at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
On the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, Energy and Power Development Minister Honourable, July Moyo, along with a delegation from ZESA Holdings, engaged with global investors in a strategic effort to attract investment and unlock transformative opportunities in power generation, telecommunications, and climate financing.
Through these discussions, the delegation successfully showcased Zimbabwe as “Open for Business” in areas such as renewable energy, carbon markets, ICT infrastructure, and innovative public-private partnerships.
In a series of impactful discussions on the sidelines of UNGA, key initiatives emerged that are poised to reshape Zimbabwe’s energy landscape.
Honourable Moyo highlighted five pivotal action points agreed upon during these negotiations;
developing a carbon credits framework; focuse on rural electrification projects to enhance energy access; exploring transition credits aimed at supporting coal power plants in their journey towards sustainability,
advancing waste gas utilisation, an Initiative to convert waste into power, tapping into the nation’s potential for renewable energy; unlocking financing for gas-to-power projects seeking investment to bolster gas power generation capabilities; hosting a carbon markets workshop designed to position Zimbabwe as a leader in carbon trading.
In addition to these initiatives, investors proposed a significant joint venture with Powertel, ZESA’s telecommunications arm, focused on expanding fibre networks, data centres, and Agri-Fintech solutions.
This public-private partnership (PPP) model promises to enhance the digital landscape and drive economic growth, leveraging existing ZESA transmission lines for fibre rollout.
Honourable Moyo made a powerful appeal to potential investors.
“Our message is simple: Zimbabwe is ready for serious investors who want to be part of our energy transition story. We have the resources, the policy support, and the demand. What we seek are partners who can bring capital, technology, and innovation to power up Zimbabwe’s future,” he said.
This call for investment aligns with the recent Cabinet approval for private sector partnerships to distribute and retail electricity in major urban centres, a strategic move that underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to expanding energy access nationwide.
This mission not only emphasised Zimbabwe’s dedication to energy security and investment partnerships but also reflected its commitment to sustainable growth.
The nation’s foreign policy, which champions the principle of being “a friend to all and enemy to none,” is central to the approach in attracting global cooperation.
As Zimbabwe looks towards a sustainable and connected future, this invitation to engage in energy and ICT investments stands as a compelling testament to our readiness to collaborate with the international community.
With a clear vision and actionable plans, Zimbabwe is poised to become an important player in the energy transition, offering promising opportunities for both its citizens and investors.
