Story by Gay Matambo
VICE President General Retired Dr Constantino Chiwenga on Thursday continued his tour of economic projects across Manicaland Province, focusing on initiatives that support industrial growth, energy security, and rural livelihoods.
The visit included Green Fuel Private Limited in the Lowveld, a facility that integrates commercial sugarcane cultivation with ethanol production. The plant contributes to Zimbabwe’s mandatory fuel-blending programme, which aims to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products amid global energy market pressures.
After touring the complex, VP Chiwenga stressed the importance of expanding ethanol production capacity to mitigate the impact of rising fuel prices.
“They say they have increased cane crushing and upgraded ethanol processing, with storage capacity of 40 million litres, production improvements can help address fuel supply fluctuations. Government will work with the company and Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe to ensure national self-reliance in energy,” he said.
Green Fuel General Manager, Mr Conrad Rautenbach, highlighted plans to produce 120 million litres of ethanol this year to support the country’s energy requirements.
“With the improved storage facilities, we expect to maintain E20 blending throughout the year. The upgrades enable us to meet national energy needs while supporting sustainable growth,” Mr Rautenbach said.
The Vice President also visited the company’s agricultural expansion and community irrigation projects, underscoring their contribution to supporting smallholder farmers and promoting rural development in Chisumbanje and surrounding areas.
The tour forms part of broader government efforts to monitor industrial activity and agricultural production, while ensuring projects align with national priorities for economic growth, energy security, and rural livelihoods.
