President Mnangagwa’s vision for unlocking SADC’s immense energy potential is not just a call for action; it is a rallying cry for a brighter, sustainable future for the region.
Addressing the groundbreaking ceremony of the Titan New Energy, Afrochine, and Dinson Projects in Hwange, the SADC Chair underscored the critical need to expand energy generation and transition towards renewable energy sources.
His remarks come as the region grapples with the stark reality that less than 50 terawatt hours per year of its 1,100 terawatt hours hydropower potential is being utilized—a gap that threatens to hinder industrial growth and socio-economic progress.
For too long, SADC’s abundant renewable resources have remained underutilized.
The African Development Bank’s revelation of the region’s untapped hydropower potential is a sobering reminder of the urgent work that lies ahead.
This underutilization presents both a challenge and an opportunity—one that President Mnangagwa has embraced with pragmatic optimism. His call to boost energy capacity and develop a sustainable mix signals a shift toward long-term solutions that can power industrialization, drive innovation, and lift millions out of energy poverty.
Zimbabwe has already taken decisive steps under the leadership of the Second Republic, proving that strategic policies and collaborative frameworks can yield tangible results.
By creating an enabling environment for Independent Power Producers (IPPs), the government has set the stage for increased private-sector investment in clean energy projects. The streamlining of permits, the introduction of competitive tariffs, and grid-connection facilitation are critical steps that encourage the diversification of energy sources while reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
The ongoing energy initiatives in Hwange, including the Titan New Energy project, reflect Zimbabwe’s commitment to redefining its energy landscape. These projects not only enhance local capacity but also serve as a blueprint for regional cooperation. They highlight the potential for SADC Member States to leverage their collective strengths through the development of transmission interconnections, enabling equitable energy distribution and shared economic benefits.
President Mnangagwa’s leadership is transforming the energy narrative in the region. His proactive stance emphasizes partnerships as the cornerstone of success. By advocating for cross-border projects and fostering investor confidence, he is positioning SADC as a global leader in renewable energy adoption and sustainable industrialization.
This vision resonates strongly at a time when global priorities are shifting toward green energy solutions and carbon reduction strategies.The stakes could not be higher. Energy is not merely a utility; it is the backbone of development.
Without it, industries falter, economies stagnate, and communities suffer. Yet, with bold initiatives and unwavering commitment, SADC has the power to reverse this trend and establish itself as a beacon of innovation and resilience.
President Mnangagwa’s call for action is a powerful reminder of what is possible when determination meets vision. It is a call to think beyond national borders, to embrace sustainability, and to create a legacy of empowerment for future generations.
For SADC, the time to act is now. The potential is vast, the tools are available, and under President Mnangagwa’s stewardship, the region is poised to harness its energy wealth to light up not just homes and industries, but the very path to its prosperity.
