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UK’s Kibo Energy drops plans to buy 100MW Vic Falls solar park, cites ‘incomplete’ project data

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HARARE – Kibo Energy, the UK renewables developer, says it has dropped its interest to acquire the 100MW Victoria Falls solar park, citing incomplete information from the project’s current owners.

The company had said in March that it had agreed to buy the project from Broomfield International Limited for US$12.6 million.

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Now Kibo says due diligence on the project shows it does not meet its requirements.

Kibo found that certain sections of the project still needed further development over a short period of time.

In other instances, the company says, Broomfield did not provide enough information about the project.

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“If transactions do not meet our information or returns requirements, it is not appropriate to proceed,” said Kibo chief executive Louis Coetzee. 

“This transaction, following our due diligence process which included satisfying the board on the documentation required for the regulatory re-admission and subsequent revised economics, ultimately did not meet our acquisition criteria.”

The Victoria Falls solar park

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Under the proposed deal, Kibo would have bought 100% of the project, which has started construction of a 100MW plant near Victoria Falls.

The first 25 MW of the project is fully funded and under construction. The first 5MW of that 25MW was expected to have been in production by April.

In 2020, government invited bids for the installation of 500MW of solar power plants, hoping a shift to renewable energy will help ease crippling power cuts.

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But investment into Zimbabwean solar has been slowed by investor doubts that they will be paid in US dollars for supplying power. 

The Victoria Falls project, however, attracted Kibo because it has a 10-year, USD-denominated power
purchase agreements with mining and industrial customers.

In its shift from coal to renewables, Kibo’s acquisition strategy has been to target projects that are near production; its renewable energy assets all have a time horizon of less than 18 months to first production.- newZwire

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National

Zimbabwe Republic Police officer faces charges for allegedly claiming to be ZRP boss

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BY STAFF REPORTER

A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer appeared in court today facing charges of causing disaffection among police officers, procuring the use of a motor vehicle by fraud, and transmitting false data messages intending to cause harm.

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Simbarashe Mandizvidza, an Assistant Inspector in the ZRP, was remanded in custody to Monday, when he will apply for bail.

According to the State, Mandizvidza on August 14, broadcast a video on his YouTube channel, Gondo Harishaye, claiming to be the head of the ZRP, despite knowing that Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba holds the position.

The State alleges that Mandizvidza’s actions were intended to cause disaffection among police officers, contrary to Section 30 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.

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Mandizvidza is also accused of procuring the use of a Ford Ranger vehicle by misrepresenting to Chief Inspector Chiteure that he had been instructed by Commissioner Makomo to use the vehicle for errands.

Furthermore, the State alleges that Mandizvidza transmitted false data messages on his YouTube channel, including claims that the ZRP Traffic section had been temporarily disbanded and that Chinese nationals must leave Zimbabwe within 48 hours.

The State indicated that it will oppose Mandizvidza’s bail application, citing the seriousness of the offenses and the need to protect the public interest.

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The case continues on Monday.

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In the community

Chief Mvutu installation underway

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BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI

Hwange District is bracing for a historic event today as Chief Mvutu is officially installed as the new substantive chief.

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The installation ceremony, which comes eleven years after the passing of Silibaziso Mlotshwa’s father in 2014, is featuring speeches, entertainment, and traditional greetings.

According to the programme, the ceremony will commence with the arrival of invited guests, followed by the arrival of distinguished guests.

The event will feature speeches by various dignitaries, including Richard Moyo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, and Senator Chief Mtshane Khumalo, President of the National Council of Chiefs.

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Other highlights of the ceremony include the investiture of Chief Mvutu, the paying of allegiance by village heads, and the presentation of gifts.

The installation ceremony marks a significant milestone in the district’s history, bringing to an end a protracted dispute over the chieftainship.

The event is expected to attract dignitaries, community leaders, and residents from across the district.

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In the community

Nkayi man in court for alleged rape of minor

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BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI 

A 28-year-old man from Nkayi appeared before the Nkayi Magistrates’ Court, facing charges of raping his 15-year-old niece.

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The prosecution alleges that the incident occurred on July 28, 2025, in a secluded bushy area. The accused is said to have sexually assaulted the minor after she refused his advances.

The matter was reported to the authorities, leading to the accused’s arrest. He has been remanded in custody pending his next court appearance.

The case has been referred to the Bulawayo Regional Court for further proceedings, with the accused set to appear on August 26.

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