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IDBZ shelves Gwayi, Plumtree solar projects

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HARARE – The Infrastructure Development Bank of Zimbabwe (IDBZ) says it is shelving two solar power projects of a combined 45MW because of Zesa’s poor transmission infrastructure.

IDBZ will no longer pursue the 15MW Tjibundule solar project in Plumtree, Matabeleland South, whose estimate cost is US$23 million.

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The bank has also abandoned plans to set up the 30MW Gwayi Solar Project in Matabeleland North, which had been projected to cost US$45 million.

“The bank has noted that inadequate transmission and distribution infrastructure will negatively affect the scaling up of renewable energy projects across the country,” said IDBZ CEO Zondo Sakala.

“Grid impact assessments have shown that existing substation and transmission infrastructure will not be able to accommodate some of the Bank’s planned solar projects…hence the Bank’s decision to shelve them.”

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Some “alternative suitable sites for the implementation of the envisaged solar projects” are now being looked at, IDBZ said in its latest half-year financials.

While Zimbabwe is scaling up investment in generation capacity, there has not been equal investment in replacing aged transmission infrastructure.

This may further hurt new energy investment, already limited by the country’s currency and regulatory hurdles.

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According to a report in 2019, Zesa loses almost 20 percent of its power due to aged transmission and distribution infrastructure.

Solar projects are among IDBZ’s priority infrastructure investment areas. While the Plumtree and Gwayi projects have stalled, IDBZ is still invested in the 50MW Rufaro Farm solar project at Longlands Farm outside Marondera.

The bank is also investing in a 20MW plant in Gutu, as well as mini hydros on the Osborne and Odzani rivers.

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In July, IDBZ received accreditation to the Green Climate Fund, which helps in channelling investment in renewable energy.

The bank, like many other local and foreign investors, is facing frustrating red tape in its attempts to get projects off the ground.

“Completion of project preparatory work is also being delayed by the time needed to obtain the required regulatory approvals,” the bank said.

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The bank needs the equivalent of US$2.5 million to prepare and start developing the projects that it has targeted as priorities in 2021.

“In the outlook, the Bank is buoyed by positive economic prospects, macroeconomic stability, an increased focus on infrastructure investment by Government,” said IDBZ. – newZwire

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National

RemitHope launches “100 for 10” campaign to raise $100K for grassroots organisations across Africa

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BY STAFF REPORTER 

RemitHope, a pioneering fintech social enterprise – founded by global philanthropist and social entrepreneur Tsitsi Masiyiwa – has launched a bold campaign to raise US$100 000 in just 60 days for 10 grassroots organisations serving some of Africa’s most vulnerable communities.

The campaign – themed “100 for 10” – seeks to channel life-changing support to organisations on the frontlines of health, education, gender equity and community resilience.

The 10 beneficiaries span nine African countries, including Cancerserve (Zimbabwe), Cáritas Regional De Chokwe (Mozambique), Empowered Girls (Tanzania), Ewang’an Nadede Advocacy Initiative (Kenya), Child Restoration Outreach (Uganda), Hands of Hope (Zimbabwe), Bana Ba Metsi (Botswana), Njira Impact (Malawi), Phelisanong Children’s Centre (Lesotho) and Refugee Children’s Project (South Africa).

“The 100 for 10 campaign is intended to harness the transforming power of small acts of generosity into life-changing opportunities for communities too often overlooked. And every dollar given delivers hope, dignity, and the promise of progress,” Mrs Masiyiwa said.

Running from September 15 to November 15, 2025, the campaign pivots RemitHope’s unique model of transparency, real-time storytelling and direct funding to vetted local partners, ensuring every contribution makes a measurable difference.

In a powerful show of commitment, and leveraging its network of donors and partners, RemitHope has pledged to match every donation given, dollar-for-dollar – effectively doubling the impact.

“If you give $5 it becomes $10, give US$50 and it becomes US$100. This is multiplying hope, opportunities, and futures with every dollar donated,” she said.

The campaign builds on RemitHope’s recent success, where the platform raised over US$81 000 in funding to rebuild Mt Selinda Orphanage in Zimbabwe after a devastating fire swept through the institution.

That effort demonstrated RemitHope’s unique ability to mobilise rapidly, scale generosity and deliver urgent impact.

“We’ve witnessed how extraordinary things happen when people unite in moments of crisis. And now, with 100 for 10, we are channelling that same spirit beyond emergencies, for the long journey of community-led development,” Mrs Masiyiwa said.

RemitHope seeks to unlock the transformative potential of diaspora remittances – redirecting a portion of the more than US$90 billion sent to Africa annually, into structured, high-impact community giving.

By blending trust, technology and targeted generosity, RemitHope aims to mobilise US$50 million for grassroots organisations over the next five years.

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New 600 schools vs. reality: Mat North rural students trek over 10 kilometers for class

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BY WANDILE TSHUMA

In a recent parliamentary session, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Torerayi Moyo, proudly announced that the government has constructed over 600 schools across Zimbabwe between 2022 and 2025. “I can happily inform this House that we have constructed more than 600 schools,” he stated, adding that “this year, we are targeting to build not less than 200 schools in 2025.”

Despite this achievement, reports from Matabeleland North province reveal a stark contrast, where students in rural areas often walk over ten kilometers to reach their nearest secondary schools. For example, in Nkayi, learners from areas such as Menda and Mantshololozane must travel long distances to access secondary education at Tohwe and Nkayi High Secondary Schools, which are situated more than ten kilometers apart. This trend has persisted, making it difficult for many students to pursue beyond primary education.

While the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to educational development, the experiences of many rural students paint a different picture. One legislator noted, “We were informed in this House that we have a deficit of 3 000 schools in Zimbabwe… what could have probably caused the mushrooming of these schools is the fact that there is a gap, and children do not have to walk long distances.”

In response to the issue of unregistered schools, Moyo addressed concerns, stating, “It is mandatory for any school to be registered before they can operate.” He explained that there is a dedicated department responsible for school registration and encouraged those operating illegally to regularize their status.

 

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Four men on the run after allegedly killing man over relative’s death

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BY STAFF REPORTER 

Four people from Silobela are being sought by the Zimbabwe Republic Police for their alleged involvement in a gruesome murder that took place on Sunday.

The police are investigating the murder of 21-year-old Thandelwenkosi Moyo, who was allegedly killed by the four suspects after being accused of killing their relative.

According to the police report, the incident occurred at Munklenuck Village, Inyathi.

The accused have been identified as Nyoka, Zizimuzi, Mboya, and Aweli.

The police report states that the four suspects took turns to attack the victim with booted feet and a sharp object, resulting in his death at the scene.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing to anyone with information about the whereabouts of the suspects to come forward and report to the nearest police station.

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