Story by Tichaona Kurewa
MATEBELELAND North Province has made significant strides in expanding access to electricity, with thousands of households, schools and businesses connected to the national grid in 2025 as part of the government’s smart cities and Vision 2030 agenda.
Figures released by the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) show that Hwange town recorded the highest number of new connections, with more than 1 000 households electrified during the year.
The accelerated electrification programme has brought long-awaited relief to communities that had gone without power for over a decade, improving living standards and stimulating economic activity.
Beyond Hwange, more than 1 000 households in Lupane’s Mtshibini area were connected to the grid, while four local schools also benefited under deferred payment arrangements aimed at improving access to electricity for social institutions.
In Binga, hundreds of homes in Siliyambebe and Manyanga townships have been reticulated, opening new opportunities for small-scale enterprises and service delivery.
Victoria Falls has also recorded notable progress, with over 900 houses connected in Kazungula and Mkhosana suburbs, while electrification works continue in low-density residential areas.
Beneficiaries say access to electricity has transformed daily life and economic prospects in their communities.
“Having electricity has changed our lives. Our children can now study at night, and we are able to use basic appliances without travelling to other areas,” one resident said.
“We waited many years for this connection. Now our homes are safer at night, and we can communicate and stay informed,” another beneficiary added.
“This electricity means development. I have started a small welding project, something that was impossible before power came,” a local entrepreneur said.
“Our health and education sectors have improved. Clinics can keep medicines cold, and schoolchildren are benefiting from better learning conditions,” another resident noted.
ZETDC says partnerships with financial institutions are expected to further accelerate the electrification programme, with more than 2 000 additional household connections planned before the end of the year.
