Story by Oleen Ndori
MORE than 500 delegates are expected to attend the 2026 Southern African Development Community Sustainable Energy Week set for Victoria Falls next week.
The high-level regional summit will be officially opened by President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the Elephant Hills Resort from February 23 to 27 2026.
Briefing journalists during the post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Zhemu Soda said the event will run under the theme “Driving Regional Economic Growth Through Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency.”
“An estimated 500 delegates from around the world are expected to participate in the event. The conference will be distinguished by the presence of high-profile dignitaries, including the SADC Executive Secretary, African Union Commissioners, Presidents of Africa Energy Week and leaders from prominent organisations,” he said.
Among the dignitaries expected is Elias Magosi, Executive Secretary of SADC.
Minister of Energy and Power Development July Moyo said the regional energy indaba comes as Zimbabwe makes notable progress towards energy self-sufficiency.
“We are using this SADC Sustainable Energy Week to promote clean energy. For Zimbabwe, our LPG expansion and clean cooking drive form part of our energy compact. In terms of biogas, we are also expanding, and we have a desire to electrify every primary and secondary school by this year,” he said.
Meanwhile, Cabinet approved contingency funding to respond to sporadic outbreaks of waterborne diseases typically associated with the rainy season.
Dr Soda said although no major outbreaks have been declared, risks remain elevated due to weather conditions, population movements and pressure on water and sanitation infrastructure. The approved contingency fund will support the Ministry of Health and Child Care’s preparedness and early response efforts.
Cabinet also received updates on Zimbabwe’s diplomatic engagements, including its bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council and preparations to host the 9th African Union Mid-Year Coordinating Meeting in 2027.
President Mnangagwa recently attended the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union Heads of State and Government and the 35th Ordinary Session of the African Peer Review Mechanism Forum in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
According to Government, the goodwill generated from Zimbabwe’s diplomatic efforts, including lobbying for a resolution condemning unilateral sanctions is expected to strengthen the country’s regional and continental standing.
Cabinet further approved a Memorandum of Understanding between Zimbabwe and Tajikistan in geological studies and received feedback on the recent government summit attended by President Mnangagwa in Dubai.
The SADC Sustainable Energy Week is expected to cement Zimbabwe’s position as a regional hub for clean energy dialogue and investment.
