Story by Aifheli Mudau
THE Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has intensified efforts to improve livelihoods and drive rural development through renewable energy projects, with a new solar plant commissioned in Beitbridge, Matabeleland South Province, this Thursday.
The commissioning of the 120-kilowatt solar community mini-grid plant, the 10th of its kind, marks a new era for the Tshitulipasi community in Beitbridge.
Community members welcomed the development, saying access to reliable electricity will improve both business operations and daily life.
“As businesses, we are now able to sell refrigerated products, something that we believe will promote business growth,” said one community member.
“It is good for both businesses and the education of our children because they are now able to use computers,” said another resident.
Women in the area also highlighted the safety benefits associated with the project.
“As women, we feel empowered because our lives were often at risk when collecting firewood due to the presence of elephants in the area,” a resident said.
“It is now easier to carry out any activity that requires electricity,” added another community member.
With an energy storage capacity of approximately 500 kilowatts, the government says the solar plant is expected to stimulate industrialisation and create sustainable livelihoods in the area.
Traditional leader Chief Matibe expressed gratitude for the development.
“We appreciate this development as a community. Our people will utilise the power from this solar plant to empower themselves,” he said.
Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Albert Nguluvhe, said the project would contribute to environmental conservation and economic empowerment.
“The solar system will help preserve our forests because community members will no longer need to cut down trees for firewood. It will also enable communities to manufacture products for sale, as energy is a key driver of business growth. Every member of the community stands to benefit,” he said.
Speaking during the switch-on ceremony, the Minister of Energy and Power Development, Honourable July Moyo, underscored the transformative impact of the project.
“Agriculture will flourish in this area as our people gain access to energy that supports both farming and business activities. We want to see cottage industries emerging in Tshitulipasi so that our youths and the wider community can be economically empowered. Let us put this solar plant to good use,” he said.
Under the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), the Second Republic is focusing on transforming rural areas from subsistence farming communities into industrialised economic hubs, with the aim of promoting localised wealth creation and value addition.
