Cabinet clears manufacturing plant deal
SAMANTHA MADE
Cabinet has approved a public-private partnership between ZESA Enterprises, a unit of ZESA Holding and Chinese firm, Shanghai Jingdao Electric Company to establish a local manufacturing plant for electrical switchgears, smart meters and electric vehicle chargers.
The initiative, authorities said will strengthen the country’s power infrastructure while anchoring a broader push to revive domestic industry.
The development was revealed by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Jenfan Muswere.
“The partnership will position Zimbabwe as a switchgear supplier in the SADC region, enhance ZETDC’s billing efficiency with smart meters, and align with global mobility trends through electric vehicle chargers,” Muswere said.
The facility is intended to meet rising demand for modern switchgears as Zimbabwe expands and upgrades its national electricity grid, while progressively phasing out ageing equipment that has weighed on system reliability.
Government officials say the project is expected to deliver a range of economic benefits, including import substitution, foreign currency savings, job creation and technology transfer, alongside improvements in the quality and stability of energy supply.
“This will strengthen ZETDC’s revenues and stimulate growth in downstream sectors,” Muswere added.
The initiative dovetails with the government’s industrialisation strategy, which prioritises local manufacturing capacity, reduced reliance on imports and deeper integration into regional value chains.
Further details on investment size, implementation timelines and financing structures are expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
