ZIMBABWE and Zambia have called for rapid implementation of major joint power generation projects, including the 2 400 megawatt Batoka Gorge Hydro-Electricity Scheme and the Kariba Floating Solar PV Plant, as both countries move to address persistent electricity shortages.
The appeal was made during the 43rd Zambezi River Authority (ZRA) Council of Ministers Meeting, held in Victoria Falls on Monday.
Officials from both countries stressed the need to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles that have slowed progress on the flagship projects, despite their strategic importance.
The two countries are jointly developing the energy projects through ZRA, with expectations that the initiatives will significantly increase power generation capacity and strengthen long-term energy security for both economies.
Makozo Chikote, Zambia’s Energy minister, who is also ZRA chairperson, said delays were undermining the full potential of the projects.
“All we want is for the Batoka Hydro-Electricity Scheme to be done like yesterday. All the bureaucracy must be dealt with,” he said.
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“This is a flagship project for Zambia and Zimbabwe, critical for growing our economies.
“The Kariba Floating Solar PV Plant is another project we wanted yesterday, as it brings the much-needed diversity to our energy mix.”
Chikote added that the solar project was equally urgent due to its potential to diversify regional power sources and create employment.
There is renewed optimism for improved power generation following promising rainfall patterns ahead of the 2025/26 rainy season.
Zimbabwe’s Energy and Power Development minister July Moyo said hydrological readings pointed to stronger water flows in the Zambezi River.
“Recent hydrological data from Nana’s Farm and the Victoria Falls gauging station indicate flows significantly higher than last year,” he said.
“This gives us hope for an improved rainfall season and enhanced water and energy security in our two countries.”
Building on the positive hydrological outlook, ZRA has announced an increase in the 2026 water allocation for power generation at Kariba Dam to 30 billion cubic metres, up from 28 billion cubic metres in 2025.
Zimbabwe and Zambia will each receive 15 billion cubic metres for electricity generation.
The ministers said accelerating the Batoka and Kariba projects would be crucial in stabilising power supplies, supporting economic growth and ensuring long-term regional energy resilience.