Vice President General Retired Dr Constantino Chiwenga continued his tour of economic projects across Manicaland Province, focusing on initiatives that drive industrial growth, strengthen energy security, and enhance rural livelihoods.
The tour included Green Fuel Private Limited in the Lowveld, a facility combining commercial sugarcane cultivation with ethanol production. The plant plays a key role in Zimbabwe’s mandatory fuel-blending programme, which aims to reduce reliance on imported petroleum amid global energy market pressures.
After inspecting the facility yesterday, VP Chiwenga stressed the importance of expanding ethanol production to shield the economy from rising fuel costs.
“They have increased cane crushing and upgraded ethanol processing, with storage capacity of 40 million litres,” he said.
“These improvements can help stabilise fuel supply. Government will work with the company and Tongaat Hulett Zimbabwe to ensure national self-reliance in energy.”
Green Fuel’s General Manager, Conrad Rautenbach highlighted the company’s production plans, stating, “We plan to produce 120 million litres of ethanol this year to support the country’s energy requirements. With the improved storage facilities, we expect to maintain E20 blending throughout the year. The upgrades enable us to meet national energy needs while supporting sustainable growth.”
VP Chiwenga also toured the company’s agricultural expansion and community irrigation projects, highlighting their impact on smallholder farmers and rural development.
“These initiatives are vital in supporting smallholder farmers and promoting rural livelihoods in Chisumbanje and surrounding areas,” he said.
The Vice President’s visit forms part of broader government efforts to monitor industrial activity and agricultural production, ensuring strategic projects contribute to Zimbabwe’s priorities of economic growth, energy security, and improved livelihoods in rural communities
