Trymore Tagwirei

The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has successfully commissioned a 160-kilowatt solar power system in the Tongogara Soti Source area of Gutu, marking a major milestone in the government’s drive to expand access to clean energy.

The project, officially commissioned last week by the Minister of Energy and Power Development, July Moyo, will supply electricity to the Soti Source Business Centre, a local clinic, Tongogara Primary School, and Soti Source Secondary School.

Moyo said the initiative underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to the national vision and its people.

“The project exemplifies the government’s dedication to rural development and Vision 2030. Schools and clinics in this area must leverage the solar project to augment education and health service delivery to the community.

“This development is expected to transform service delivery in the community, boosting healthcare, education, business activity and government operations,” said Moyo.

The commissioning ceremony was also attended by State Security Minister Lovemore Matuke, Masvingo Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Ezra Chadzamira, traditional leaders and local residents.

With this initiative, Tongogara and Soti Source join a growing list of rural communities benefiting from the government’s Rural Electrification Programme.

REA Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Felistar Makumbinde, reiterated the agency’s vision to achieve universal rural electrification by 2030.

“By 2030, we aim to have electrified all rural areas using one form of energy or another. At present, REA is also constructing free biogas digesters for households with cattle to further expand access to clean energy,” said Makumbinde.

Residents warmly welcomed the development, describing it as life-changing.

“We are immensely thrilled with this project. Electricity will make learning much easier for our children, who can now study under proper lighting. As you know, electricity is a basic necessity in modern life, and we are deeply grateful to the government for bringing it to our area,” one villager said.