By Admore Mbonda in Kariba
The Government of Zimbabwe has commissioned the 120kW Dete Solar Mini-Grid, a major renewable energy milestone intended to improve power access, reduce reliance on firewood, and strengthen local livelihoods in Hurungwe District.
The mini grid was officially commissioned by Hon. July Moyo (MP), Minister of Energy and Power Development, during a ceremony attended by senior officials, community representatives, and development partners, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Set in motion by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) under the Rural Electrification Fund (REF) and supported by UNDP, the project is expected to bring clean, reliable electricity to rural households and critical local institutions—helping the district move closer to Zimbabwe’s broader goal of **universal access to modern energy services by 2030.
At the commissioning event, stakeholders said the Dete Solar Mini Grid is already supplying power to key community facilities, including:Two schools and a clinic Village homesteads and a business center Community boreholes and local churches
Officials noted that reliable electricity is expected to support improved learning outcomes in schools, enhance healthcare delivery at the clinic, and strengthen daily living through improved water services.
They also emphasized that electrification can reduce the time and burden placed on women and girls who traditionally spend hours collecting firewood an outcome viewed as essential for social development alongside energy access.
The mini grid was implemented through a blended-finance approach combining public sector leadership with development partner support.
UNDP provided catalytic funding of over US$337,000 to procure crucial infrastructure such as solar panels, battery storage, and inverters. REA, meanwhile, constructed a 5.9km distribution network and installed smart prepaid meters to connect end users.
The project’s rollout also used a Viability Gap Funding (VGF) mechanism designed to reduce investment risk and encourage sustainable deployment creating a model that could be used to scale similar renewable energy systems across the country.
Beyond household connections, the Dete Solar Mini Grid is also energizing local economic activity.
Community members said the initiative is powering small businesses and supporting income generating opportunities, while complementary solar energy kiosks in the wider area provide services such as Phone charging Refrigeration Tailoring and retail support
Youth and women ed enterprises were highlighted as among the primary beneficiaries, with organizers also pointing to training programmes that build capacity in business and financial management to support long-term sustainability.
Officials said the commissioning directly supports Zimbabwe’s policy direction under National Development Strategy (NDS2), the Rural Energy Master Plan, and Vision 2030, which aim to improve quality of life through inclusive growth.
The project also contributes to global commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) particularly SDG 7 on affordable and clean energy by expanding clean electricity access in areas long affected by the urban-rural power divide.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Chief Kazangarare welcomed the initiative and urged stakeholders to ensure continuous maintenance and capacity building.
“This is a turning point for our people. When power comes, opportunities come with it especially for schools, the clinic, and our young entrepreneurs. We thank Government and development partners, and we ask that the systems are properly supported so the benefits are sustained,” Chief Kazangarare said.
The mini-grid forms part of the UNDP Energy Offer Project, implemented over two years to accelerate access to sustainable, affordable, and clean energy.
The initiative supports Zimbabwe’s revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and Vision 2030 objectives, while addressing a major gap: officials noted that over 91% of households in rural areas still lack electricity, even as urban areas continue to see expansion.
With the Dete Solar Mini Grid now in operation, Government and partners said the district can expect improved services today while Zimbabwe’s renewable energy pathway continues to gain momentum toward nationwide electrification
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