Government has commissioned an energy-efficient lighting system at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital, a move expected to improve service delivery while reducing operational costs.
The LED lighting retrofit project, funded by the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), was officially unveiled, yesterday, by Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza.
Speaking in an interview after the commissioning ceremony, Minister Mugadza said the project reflects Government’s commitment to strengthening critical public infrastructure through modern, sustainable solutions.
“This initiative speaks to the intersection of energy and health. Without reliable and efficient power, a modern hospital cannot function at its full potential,” he said.
The retrofit project is part of broader efforts to modernise public institutions in line with National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2) and Vision 2030, which seek to improve service delivery and promote sustainable development.
Minister Mugadza said the installation of LED lighting will not only enhance visibility within the hospital but also create a conducive working environment for health personnel.
“By upgrading to energy-efficient lighting, we are ensuring that our doctors and nurses operate in a safe and well-lit environment, ultimately improving patient care,” he said.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Energy and Power Development, Engineer Gloria Magambo, said the project demonstrates the practical implementation of the National Energy Efficiency Policy at institutional level.
“This is a clear example of policy translating into real benefits for communities. Energy efficiency is not just about saving power, but about improving livelihoods and service delivery,” she said.
ZERA Board Chairman, Farai Mavhisa-Bhiza, represented at the event by Vice Chairman Rtd Colonel Mudzinganyama, said the retrofit has already yielded measurable results.
“The hospital’s power demand has been reduced from approximately 160 kilowatts to 140 kilowatts, which is about a 12 percent reduction. This translates to significant cost savings,” he said.
He added that the financial savings realised from reduced electricity consumption can be redirected towards critical areas such as procurement of medicines, upgrading medical equipment and improving patient care.
Health officials at the institution welcomed the development, noting that improved lighting will enhance efficiency across departments, particularly in emergency and surgical units where consistent illumination is critical.
The project also contributes to Zimbabwe’s broader environmental goals by reducing energy consumption and lowering carbon emissions, in line with global commitments on climate action.
The commissioning of the LED retrofit marks a significant step in integrating sustainable energy solutions into the country’s health sector, reinforcing Government’s drive to deliver quality, efficient and modern healthcare services.
