Zimbabwe, RIDA Launch $432M Solar Plan

Key Figures & Findings: The Government of Zimbabwe has launched the Presidential Rural Household Solarisation Project, a nationwide initiative aimed at connecting 1.2 million off-grid rural homesteads to solar power by 2030. The project, led by the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs and Devolution in coordination with the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA), will deploy standalone solar systems to support refrigeration, lighting, communication, and water pumping in underserved communities. RIDA’s Provincial Director, Engineer Robert Chawatama, confirmed that priority will be given to war veterans, traditional leaders, child-headed households, women, youths, and persons with disabilities. Traditional leaders like Chief Chitsunge of Buhera have welcomed the intervention, citing improved access to communication and government services.

Statistics & Insights: The programme will cost $432 million over six years, targeting 200,000 households per year at $360 per household. Manicaland province will install 25,000 systems annually, including 4,971 in Chipinge Rural, 4,323 in Makoni, and 4,174 in Mutare Rural.

Future Implications: If implemented as scheduled, the first households could be electrified by late 2025, with full coverage expected by December 2030. The project could boost rural productivity, support small-scale irrigation, and enhance digital access, while positioning Zimbabwe for broader off-grid energy investment post-2026.

Source: The Herald