THE 2026 edition of the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) Sustainable Energy Week (SEW) to be held next week in Victoria Falls presents the country with significant opportunities to market itself as a tourist and investment destination.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services minister Zhemu Soda said this during post-Cabinet briefing on Tuesday.
The regional event will run from February 23 to 27 under the theme Driving Regional Economic Growth through Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency.
“The event... is expected to attract approximately 500 delegates from across the world,” Soda said.
He said the conference would bring together diverse stakeholders in the energy sector, including regional institutions, government agencies, private sector players, academia and development partners.
“The conference will be distinguished by the presence of high-profile dignitaries, including the Sadc executive secretary, African Union commissioners, presidents of Africa Energy Week and leaders from prominent organisations,” he said.
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Soda said hosting the prestigious event presented significant opportunities for Zimbabwe.
“Hosting this important regional platform will stimulate economic growth through increased tourism and hospitality activities, attract new investments and business opportunities, and strengthen Zimbabwe’s regional leadership and visibility in the energy sector.
“It will also facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity development, while fostering strategic diplomatic partnerships and supporting the country’s engagement and re-engagement initiatives.”
According to Soda, the programme will feature parallel sessions and side events during the first two days, with the official opening ceremony scheduled for the third day.
“The official opening ceremony will be officiated by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, who is expected to deliver the Keynote Address and tour exhibition stands,” Soda said.
Conference sessions will continue on the fourth day, while the fifth day will be dedicated to energy project site visits in the morning, followed by excursions in the afternoon.
The SADC Sustainable Energy Week is a key regional platform aimed at promoting cooperation in clean energy development and energy efficiency in line with regional integration and sustainable industrialisation goals.