Story by Yolanda Moyo
ZIMBABWE’S investment in renewable energy is delivering tangible gains in the health sector, as the country prepares to host SADC Energy Week in Victoria Falls from 23 to 27 February.
Government has accelerated the deployment of solar systems in public health institutions nationwide, reducing power outages and stabilising critical services.
At United Bulawayo Central Hospital, solar installation has significantly improved operations.
“The introduction of solar power has significantly improved service delivery. Critical departments no longer experience downtime, and this has enhanced patient safety and efficiency across the hospital. This has also increased morale at the hospital as staff are certain that their operations are not interrupted,” said the hospital’s Principal Nursing Officer, Mrs Sikhangezile Moyo.
Authorities say partnerships with development agencies have accelerated the rollout of clean energy solutions across both public and private institutions. The net metering system now allows independent power producers to feed excess electricity into the national grid, strengthening overall supply resilience.
The country’s renewable energy progress will be in focus at the regional indaba in Victoria Falls, where energy ministers, technical experts and private sector players from across the Southern African region are expected to attend SADC Energy Week.
Beyond policy discussions, tourism stakeholders say the event is expected to deliver economic benefits to the resort city, particularly during the traditionally slow first quarter of the year.
Tourism stakeholder Dr Clement Mukwasi said hosting the summit reinforces Victoria Falls’ standing as a leading conference destination.
“By hosting SADC Energy Week here in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe is not only showcasing its renewable energy progress, but also positioning the city as a premier regional conference destination. We are happy that the conference is happening now at the beginning of the green season. We know that the first quarter of the year is usually very quiet and this conference is actually a declaration of confidence in our name as a destination, in our name as a country,” he said.
He added that the city expects increased regional and international conference business following its recent global recognition as a top travel destination.
SADC Energy Week will bring together policymakers and industry leaders to discuss regional energy security, renewable integration and private sector participation, as Zimbabwe positions itself at the centre of Southern Africa’s clean energy transition.
