Staff Reporter
The commissioning of the five-megawatt Mutirikwi Mini-Hydro Power Plant in Masvingo Province marks a transformative milestone under Zimbabwe’s Second Republic, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to energy self-sufficiency and the Vision 2030 agenda.
Completed late last year, the plant is now operating at full capacity, feeding much-needed electricity into the national grid while addressing local energy needs.
Situated at Lake Mutirikwi, the hydroelectric facility harnesses abundant water resources to generate clean energy. This development has bolstered Masvingo’s energy supply, alleviating the region’s dependence on the national grid.
In an interview with the media, Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Ruvai Chadzamira, highlighted the transformative impact of the plant, noting that it has effectively ended load-shedding at critical infrastructure in Masvingo town.
“Previously, Masvingo was receiving two megawatts from the national grid. With the additional five megawatts from Mutirikwi, we now have sufficient power for critical institutions,such as hospitals, water pump stations for Masvingo urban, and security departments,” Minister Chadzamira said.
Operational since November 2024, the Mutirikwi plant has exceeded expectations.
Site Manager Austin Boora stated, “We reached commercial operation on 9 November, and since then, the plant has been generating over five megawatts, running 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Daily, we produce approximately 120 megawatt-hours, which can power around 3,000 households.”
The plant manager, Engineer Justice Jangano emphasised the broader benefits of the project.
“Beyond powering homes, the facility ensures uninterrupted irrigation pumping from Lake Mutirikwi, supporting agriculture and local economic activities.
“The plant’s success has energised the surrounding community, paving the way for expanded irrigation schemes and enhanced agricultural productivity,” he said.
One community member remarked, “With reliable electricity, we can now focus on farming projects and other initiatives that were previously hindered by power cuts.”
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has consistently underscored the critical role of energy in achieving an upper-middle-income society by 2030. The Mutirikwi project exemplifies the Government’s strategy to harness the economic potential of Zimbabwe’s water resources.
Furthering this vision, plans are underway for another mini-hydro plant at Tugwi-Mukosi Dam, also in Masvingo Province, signaling continued efforts to bridge the nation’s energy gaps.
The Mutirikwi Mini-Hydro Power Plant stands as a beacon of progress, aligning with the country’s drive to enhance energy sustainability and stimulate socio-economic growth, one megawatt at a time.
