Story by Gay Matambo
MANICALAND Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, says the commissioning of the Nzvimbe Community Solar Project in Makoni South marks a major step in improving rural service delivery, employment creation and economic productivity.
The solar mini-grid project, commissioned on Thursday, was spearheaded by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) as part of the Government’s rural industrialisation drive.
Advocate Mugadza said reliable electricity remained critical for community development and economic growth.
“Without adequate power generation, industries cannot operate efficiently. Hospitals and schools cannot function optimally, and communities cannot realise their full productive potential,” he said.
“The commissioning of this solar mini-grid project represents more than infrastructure development. It signifies hope, progress, employment creation and enhanced service delivery.”
The project will provide clean and sustainable energy to 13 public institutions, including Nzvimbe Primary and Secondary schools and Nzvimbe Clinic, while also extending electricity to 63 homesteads.
Energy and Power Development Minister, Honourable July Moyo said access to energy was central to improving livelihoods and driving economic transformation in rural communities.
“We understand that electricity is a critical resource which drives economic prosperity and changes the living conditions of benefiting villages, improves rural business operations and working conditions for teachers, nurses, agricultural extension officers and police,” he said.
Acting Rural Electrification Agency Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Felisters Makumbinde said the project was completed after more than 200 days of construction work.
“This project commenced on October 2, 2024 and was completed on December 20, 2025. It took 211 days to implement, and we used ZiG11 million and ZiG775 826 to set up this solar plant,” she said.
Makoni South legislator, Honourable Albert Nyakuyedzwa welcomed the development, saying it would improve education, healthcare and livelihoods in the area.
“We are grateful for this developmental project that is set to benefit this community. It will transform the lives of learners and every beneficiary of this project,” he said.
Residents said the project would end years of dependence on costly generators and traditional fuel sources.
“Learners can now use computers at school, giving us hope for a better future. We are committed to protecting this equipment because it represents development and opportunity for Ward 31,” a resident said.
The Nzvimbe Community Solar Project forms part of Government efforts to expand rural electrification and improve access to clean energy in underserved communities.
