One of the leading global energy company, PUMA opened a new rural retail service station in Mhandamabwe last week.
The service station located at the intersection of the Bulawayo-Masvingo, and Beitbridge-Gweru highways, sits along a critical transport route connecting Zimbabwe to regional markets in the Southern African Development Community (Sadc).
PUMA Energy Zimbabwe general manager Patrick Ngugu said location should not hinder one from accessing energy.
“Driven by the belief that access to energy should not be defined by location, but available to everyone, wherever they live, work, and do business, we are delivering on our promise to bring reliable, safe, and affordable energy closer to communities,” Ngugu said during the launch.
He said they were offering mobile money services making lives of the rural populace easier.
“This means farmers, traders, transport operators, and families can access financial services right here, without the need to travel long distances,” Ngugu said.
“This helps families and small businesses get more value from every transaction, making everyday life easier while supporting local economic activity.”
He said employment was created during construction approximately 40 people were employed with the majority from the community.
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Seven people are permanently employed at the station.
Over the next three years they plan to open five rural retail sites annually, develop 30 LPG outlets, and roll out more than 20 non-fuel offerings across their network.
Each site will drive local economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen community livelihoods.
PUMA Energy head for Africa, Ben Ouattara said it was their mandate to bridge the gap and ensure everyone has equal access to energy and build resilience.
“Our role is to bridge the gap, ensuring that reliable energy reaches the communities and economies that depend on it,” Ouattara said.
“Through our partnership with our suppliers, we combine global supply strength with deep local expertise.
“This enables us to operate effectively in complex environments, ensuring continuity of supply and long-term resilience.”
Ouattara added that they want to expand lower carbon solutions in the country.
“In support of Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy Two, we have solarised 50% of our retail network, reducing reliance on the grid and improving operational reliability,” he said.
“We are also delivering dedicated solar solutions for our B2B customers, helping commercial and industrial partners strengthen resilience and manage energy costs more effectively.”
Energy and Power Development deputy minister, Yeukai Simbanegavi, said this is the foundation of rural development.
“For too long rural areas have been viewed as places to leave in search of opportunity elsewhere. Developments such as this site, are changing the narrative,” Simbanegavi said.
“Rural communities must not be left behind, but positioned as centres of growth, investment, and innovation.
“This is the foundation of smart rural development, a future where communities are energy secure, economically vibrant, digitally connected, and socially empowered.
“This is the Zimbabwe we are building, step by step, investment by investment.”
