Zimbabwe and Zambia Struggle with Severe Power Outages Caused by the Worst Drought on Record in Both Countries.
Zimbabwe and Zambia are facing severe power outages caused by the worst drought on record in both countries. In response, officials from both nations are gathering this week at Victoria Falls to discuss strategies for attracting investment in energy projects. The summit comes at a critical time, with water levels at the Kariba Dam falling, leading to widespread blackouts lasting up to 20 hours.
The first Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects Summit highlighted the countries’ vulnerability due to over-reliance on hydroelectric power. Officials from both nations called for a shift towards renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power. Zimbabwe’s Vice President Constantino Chiwenga emphasized the significant potential of solar energy, noting that both countries receive abundant sunshine throughout the year. He called for the development of large-scale solar farms to meet local energy needs and create opportunities for electricity exports to neighboring regions.
As part of efforts to diversify energy production, Zimbabwe and Zambia have begun exploring floating solar projects on Lake Kariba, where water levels are critically low due to ongoing El Niño-induced drought. The dam, which historically supplied power to both nations, currently holds only about 2% of its water capacity.
Zambia’s Energy Minister Makozo Chikote linked the country’s energy strategy to its expanding copper industry, underscoring the importance of renewable energy. Zambia aims to produce 3 million tons of copper annually by 2035, with revenues from increased production expected to help finance the transition to cleaner energy sources.
Both nations are working to secure foreign investment, with the European Union’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann, emphasizing the need for stability in economic policies. He warned that attempts to abandon the US dollar, in use since 2009, could deter investors. Similarly, the UK’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, John Humphrey, stressed the importance of a predictable and stable environment for long-term investments, particularly in renewable energy.
The summit will conclude on Wednesday, with both countries hopeful that the discussions will pave the way for future energy security and economic growth.
