Story by Owen Mandovha
ENHANCED electricity generation under the Second Republic is driving a resurgence in production across key sectors, with businesses reporting improved output and operational stability.
Traders and manufacturers say reliable power has transformed working conditions, eliminating the need for nighttime operations that previously disrupted productivity.
At Gazaland in Highfield, Harare, welders Langton Gambizvo and Garikai Mukwashi say erratic supply once crippled their businesses.
“We had no choice but to wake up at night and try to do work because there was no electricity. Our source of income was greatly affected,” Gambizvo said.
“At times I would come and just sit because there was no electricity… I would manufacture just two bumpers per month,” Mukwashi added.
Both say the situation has markedly improved.
“There are no more disturbances, and there is no longer any need to work at night,” Gambizvo said.
“There is an uninterrupted supply of electricity and we can feed our families,” Mukwashi said.
Medium-sized enterprises are also reporting gains. Director of Skilz Shopfitters, Mr Dominic Jairos, said stable electricity is now enabling expansion.
“Power means everything to our operations; hence, the Government is greatly commended for investing in electricity generation,” he said.
Chief executive of Attoch Engineering, Mr Wonder Manyozo, said consistent supply is supporting increased demand, particularly from the mining sector.
“I do not need to worry about power because it is always available compared to in the past,” he said.
The improved supply follows major investments in generation capacity, including the expansion of Hwange Thermal Power Station Units 7 and 8, which added more than 600 megawatts to the national grid.
Economists say stable electricity is a critical enabler of growth in sectors such as agriculture, mining, and manufacturing, positioning industry for sustained recovery and expansion.
