Chillmine, Energywise Unite for Zimbabwe Solar

Key Figures & Findings: Chillmine, a Seattle-based data center startup founded by tech executives with Zimbabwean roots, has signed an MOU with Zimbabwe’s Energywise Equipment to develop solar-powered facilities supporting AI and crypto hosting. The project will be powered by Energywise’s planned 100MW Runde River Solar Park in Zvishavane. Chillmine’s leadership, including former Dandemutande CEO Nhena Nyagura and U.S.-based Harry Samkange, is expected to help navigate local regulatory challenges as Zimbabwe pushes to attract digital infrastructure investments despite chronic electricity shortages.

Statistics & Insights: The planned facilities will rely on Runde River Solar Park for energy supply, aiming to cut operational costs through Chillmine’s liquid cooling technology.

Future Implications: If successful, the first eco-conscious AI and crypto data centers in Zimbabwe could launch by late 2026, offering a template for sustainable digital infrastructure across Southern Africa. However, execution risks remain high given Zimbabwe’s persistent electricity supply challenges.

Source: TechZim