Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. THE completion of a 120-kilowatt solar power plant at Chitulipasi business centre in Beitbridge has marked a turning point for the once-marginalised community, paving way for accelerated rural industrialisation and improved livelihoods.
Spearheaded by the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), the solar project has connected a local business centre, more than 40 homesteads and key public institutions including a clinic, a primary school, a police station, government sub-offices and community boreholes.
The milestone has transformed access to basic services and opened new economic possibilities for residents.
In an interview, REA spokesperson Johannes Nyamayedenga said the agency remained focused on fulfilling its mandate of bringing power to marginalised areas by 2030, in line with government’s Vision 2030 agenda.
“Our mission is to electrify all previously marginalised communities by 2030. We want every village to access services such as welding equipment locally instead of travelling long distances. This project aligns with the President (Emmerson Mnangagwa)’s Vision 2030,” he said.
Among most notable beneficiaries is Tshitulipasi Clinic, which now offers maternal and general healthcare services under vastly improved conditions.
Local resident Thando Matseru, who recently gave birth at the clinic, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the difference the electrification has made.
“We are grateful for this development. In the past, one had to bring candles when coming to give birth. Now, we have power and the environment is far more conducive,” she said.
Community leaders also welcomed the project, highlighting its positive ripple effects on education, commerce and service delivery.
Village head Samson Moyo hailed the initiative as a symbol of true inclusion.
“We are now confident that no place is being left behind. The arrival of electricity has truly transformed this area,” he said.
Chitulipasi Solar Project chairperson Robert Hlongwani echoed similar sentiments, citing improved learning outcomes and business continuity.
“Children are now learning with computers at school and shops can operate without disruption. This is what rural industrialisation looks like,” he said.
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