Umguza District is emerging as a leader in Zimbabwe’s rural green energy transition, with solar power and biogas technologies increasingly complementing conventional electrification efforts to transform livelihoods in remote communities.
As Government intensifies efforts to achieve universal access to modern energy under Vision 2030, the district is becoming a model for sustainable rural development, demonstrating how a combination of grid electrification, solar installations and biogas projects can bridge energy access gaps while supporting education, healthcare, agriculture and local enterprise.
Speaking during the commissioning of an eight-kilometre Rural Electrification Agency (REA) power line constructed at a cost of ZiG3 million for Majindane Primary School in Nyamandlovu recently, Matabeleland North Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Richard Moyo said expanding access to electricity was critical to unlocking the province’s economic potential.
“Matabeleland North is a vast province with economic and community empowerment activities such as cattle ranching and tourism. Farmers and tourist facility operators need electricity to increase productivity, improve their way of living and contribute meaningfully to the development of our great nation,” said Minister Moyo.
Recent statistics from the Rural Electrification Fund (REF) show that between January and June this year, at least 139 institutions and development centres in Umguza were electrified, leaving only 15 awaiting connection and one project currently under implementation.
The institutions include schools, clinics, Government extension offices, business centres, villages, small-scale farms and traditional leadership establishments.
Solar-powered facilities such as Hlabathi Primary School and several Agritex centres have also benefited from solar micro-grids and mobile solar units, enabling remote communities to access electricity without waiting for costly grid infrastructure.
Acting REA board chairperson, Cecilia Chitiyo said modern and sustainable energy was transforming rural communities.
“The provision of modern and sustainable energy is a game changer to the way of life of the benefiting community. Just switching on the plug makes all the difference,” she said.
The district is also making strides in biogas technology, which supports national efforts to reduce deforestation and promote cleaner, environmentally sustainable energy solutions.
The ongoing rollout of solar, biogas and grid electrification projects in Umguza District reflects Government’s broader drive to expand access to modern energy under Vision 2030. Authorities say the interventions are expected to enhance service delivery and support economic activities across education, health, agriculture and enterprise in the district.
