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AfDB Boosts Zimbabwe’s Renewable Energy Sector with $3.2M Grant

By Shingirai Vambe

Zimbabwe has secured a significant boost in its efforts to develop renewable energy sources, courtesy of a US$3.2 million funding package from the African Development Bank (AfDB). This timely injection of funds is aimed at helping the country overcome its acute power crisis, which has been exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure and frequent power outages.

According to Energy and Power Development Permanent Secretary Gloria Magombo, the funding will primarily be channeled towards wind-powered energy projects. To ensure the successful implementation of these projects, consultants from the AfDB are already on the ground, providing technical assistance and guidance.

The funding package is divided into five contracts, which include a project for the Zimbabwe Electricity Regulatory Authority (Zera) focused on developing a regulatory accounting system for licensed companies. This system will enable companies to adopt a common reporting framework, streamlining their operations and enhancing transparency.

Another critical component of the funding is the wind resource assessment project, expected to help identify and harness the country’s wind energy potential. This project is crucial in Zimbabwe’s quest to diversify its energy mix and reduce its reliance on non-renewable energy sources.

Zimbabwe’s energy challenges are well-documented, with the country struggling to meet its energy demands due to inadequate infrastructure and limited energy generation capacity. The AfDB’s funding package is a significant step towards addressing these challenges and promoting sustainable energy development in Zimbabwe.