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Home Breaking News Featured News General News Latest News Renewable Energy Solar News Trending News Zimbabwe News Mayor Jacob Mafume Slams Councillors Over Failed Solar Energy Initiative

By Sona Brands

On 5, 2024

11,990,689 Views

In a stark critique that has sent ripples through the municipal governance of Zimbabwe's capital, Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume has berated his fellow councillors for their failure to implement a green energy plan, highlighting the city's lag behind rural councils in adopting solar power.

Speaking at a recent Full Council meeting, Mayor Mafume expressed his frustration over the council's inability to develop a renewable energy strategy, despite Harare's superior financial and infrastructural capabilities compared to rural areas. Mafume's remarks were particularly pointed, as he noted that rural district councils have made significant strides in solar energy adoption.

"I am upset because I told people that we needed to have solar plants by now to be able to have a homegrown solution for energy," Mafume said, his voice reflecting the urgency and disappointment felt by many Harare residents. "The business committee in its wisdom, or lack thereof, is still dilly-dallying and avoiding coming up with a decision."

Rural Councils Lead the Way

In contrast to Harare's inaction, several rural councils have successfully implemented solar energy projects. For instance, Gutu Rural District Council has established a 5MW solar plant, while Matobo Rural District Council, in collaboration with the Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ), is working on a more ambitious 130MW plant. Additionally, a 6KW solar plant has been constructed in Bemba, Tsholotsho.

Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume

These initiatives not only underscore the proactive approach of rural councils but also highlight the potential benefits of decentralized renewable energy solutions. As Mafume lamented, "Now rural district councils are putting up eight megawatt stations and a city the size of Harare does not have a renewable energy plan."

The Energy Crisis in Zimbabwe

The failure to adopt solar energy is particularly poignant given Zimbabwe's ongoing energy crisis. Extreme load shedding, resulting in power blackouts of over 10 hours a day, has become a norm due to subdued power generation at the country's main power stations, Kariba and Hwange. Most Independent Power Producers (IPPs), licensed over a year ago, are yet to commence operations or contribute to the national grid.

Expert Insights and Future Directions

Experts in the energy sector emphasize the importance of diversifying energy sources to mitigate the current power shortages. "Solar energy is a viable and sustainable solution for Zimbabwe's energy challenges," said Kudakwashe, a renewable energy specialist. "The success of rural councils in this area should serve as a model for urban centers like Harare. It is crucial for the city to develop a comprehensive renewable energy plan to reduce its reliance on traditional power sources."

Call to Action

As Harare continues to grapple with the consequences of its inaction, Mayor Mafume's critique serves as a wake-up call for the city's councillors. The need for a cohesive and proactive approach to renewable energy is more pressing than ever. By learning from the successes of rural councils and addressing the inefficiencies within their own ranks, Harare can take a significant step towards a more sustainable energy future.

Mayor Jacob Mafume Slams Councillors Over Failed Solar Energy Initiative

The disparity between Harare's potential and its actual performance in adopting solar energy is a stark reminder of the city's governance challenges. As Zimbabwe navigates its energy crisis, the example set by rural councils offers a beacon of hope and a clear direction for urban areas to follow.

Will Harare rise to the challenge and embrace the renewable energy solutions that its rural counterparts have so successfully implemented? Only time will tell, but the urgency of the situation demands immediate action.

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