ZIMBABWE’S decision to allow independent power producers (IPPs) to generate, transmit, distribute and retail electricity has been hailed as a landmark reform that could reshape the country’s energy future, unlocking private investment and driving industrial growth.
Renewable energy expert Edzai Kachirekwa yesterday described the move as a “historic shift” that demonstrates visionary leadership and a commitment to building a resilient and inclusive energy sector.
“This policy development marks a historic shift, one that will forever redefine the country’s energy landscape, economic architecture, and industrial future,” he said.
“It is a bold step that demonstrates the government’s commitment to fostering a resilient, inclusive and competitive energy sector, unlocking both domestic innovation and global investment.”
The new framework, announced last week, allows IPPs not only to generate power, but also to transmit and sell electricity directly — a move expected to relieve pressure on the national grid, diversify energy sources and attract private capital to the power sector.
Kachirekwa said the empowerment of IPPs aligned with Vision 2030 and National Development Strategy 1 (NDS 1), both of which emphasise infrastructure growth and energy-driven industrialisation.
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“Electricity is not just a utility; it is the lifeblood of every economy. Without it, factories fall silent, innovation stagnates and growth is paralysed. Yet with it, nations rise,” he said.
“With this new policy, Zimbabwe has declared that it is ready to take charge of its energy destiny — anchored on sustainability, innovation and inclusive development.”
He added that the decision contributed to the attainment of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including affordable and clean energy (SDG 7), economic growth (SDG 8), industry and innovation (SDG 9), and climate action (SDG 13).
Kachirekwa, a veteran engineer with over 27 years experience in high-voltage power systems, said power giants stood ready to partner government, parastatals and investors to “engineer Zimbabwe’s energy renaissance”.
“This announcement is more than just good news for engineers,” he said.
“It tells the world that Zimbabwe is ready to innovate, ready to invest and ready to lead Africa into a future powered by clean, reliable and locally-generated energy.”
Energy experts say the move could also enable Zimbabwe to participate competitively in regional energy trading through the Southern African Power Pool, turning the country into a potential exporter of electricity.
Kachirekwa expressed gratitude to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for what he termed “visionary leadership and belief in the potential of the private sector”.
“Leadership is not only about governance but about foresight — about believing in the potential of your people and private enterprise to build a prosperous future together,” he said.
As Zimbabwe pushes for energy self-sufficiency, industry players believe this reform will unlock investment, create jobs and drive innovation across the power value chain — a development that could light the way towards a more sustainable and industrialised economy.