By Elvis Dumba
Chinhoyi — The government project to have clean energy for power in households is set to economically transform communities.
The initiative which was approved by government targets to solarize at least 1.2 million households nationwide over a period from 2025 to 2030.
At least two hundred thousand households are expected to benefit from this project on a yearly basis from the year 2025.
The project will see the installation of a solar unit on every selected household. For household usage, the system can power the following; communication devices such as cell phones and laptops, entertainment gadgets such as television sets and radios, submersible pumps and the lighting gadgets such as LED bulbs.
The project, will be spearheaded by the Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (RIDA). A National Steering committee issue and oversee standard operating procedure guidelines on the implementation modalities of the programme. The project implementation will be done through various subcommittees.
During a stakeholder sensitization meeting held in Chinhoyi, Mashonaland West Province Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Hon Marian Chombo said the initiative is driven by government’s commitment for uplifting people’s lives towards an upper middle-income society.
“As we gather here today, we recognize the critical role that renewable energy plays in transforming rural communities. Solarization empowers our villages with clean and sustainable energy in as much as it fosters economic growth.
“As we embark on this ambitious journey, we are driven by our commitment to uplift the lives of our rural fellows.
“This project is a testament to our government’s dedication to providing sustainable energy solutions and enhancing the overall quality of life for our citizens.
“It is part of the President’s drive to promote rural industrialization development agenda and the realization of the Rural Development Strategy by creating an expansion of solar powered infrastructure.”
She told a meeting attended by parliamentarians, local authorities, government agencies and trading leaders.
The project is a game changer in government’s efforts on climate change
“This project is a shining example of our nation’s efforts to build resilient and sustainable communities. By harnessing the power of solar energy, we are reducing our reliance on non-renewable energy sources and mitigating the impacts of climate change,” she said.
Engineer Trust Sauramba from Rural Electrification Agency said the program will be rolled in rural ares with liberation war heroes and people living with disabilities being prioritized.
“The roll out in the villages will prioritize our war veterans and people living with disabilities as first beneficiaries with all rural homes going to benefit from the programme,” he said.
The roll out will also benefit young people through employment creation where young people from vocational trainings will be empowered with solar installation skills.
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