Rural Electrification Agency Expands Access to Power in Matabeleland South
The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has made significant progress in expanding access to electricity in Matabeleland South. Over 120 schools and 47 clinics have now been electrified, marking a major step forward in improving infrastructure and service delivery in remote communities. This achievement was recently highlighted during the commissioning of electricity connections at Alpha Primary School and Montrose Clinic in Insiza District.
The project, which cost US$85,000, is part of the government’s broader Rural Electrification Programme. The initiative aims to provide reliable power to rural areas, enhancing the quality of education and healthcare services. Before the project, both the school and clinic operated without electricity, relying on solar panels and lanterns for lighting. These institutions were once part of the infrastructure of a former white commercial farmer, who owned the land before it was acquired for resettlement in 2002.
The completion of this project has brought modern power to the area, transforming not only education and healthcare but also community development. Acting Rural Electrification Agency (REA) chief executive officer, Felistus Magumbire, emphasized the impact of the programme across the province. He stated that the REA has already electrified over 120 schools and 47 clinics in Matabeleland South Province. “We are proud to see how communities like Insiza are now benefiting directly from this investment,” he said. “Access to electricity is a key driver of rural transformation, and our target is to reach every public institution by 2030.”
Energy minister July Moyo praised the collaboration between the REA, local authorities, and the community, calling the project “a crucial step towards inclusive development.” He added, “Electricity is not just about lighting buildings. It powers education, healthcare and livelihoods. When we connect a school and a clinic, we are literally connecting the future of our children and the well-being of our mothers.”
At Alpha Primary School, the new power connection will enable the introduction of computer studies, improve science teaching, and support administrative functions. A member of the school’s development committee, Jabulani Moyo, shared that the project has restored hope for both teachers and pupils. “For the first time, our children can use digital learning tools and study safely after sunset,” he said.
Nearby, the newly electrified Montrose Clinic has already begun to see positive changes. The sister-in-charge, Shela Dube, described the challenges faced by health workers before the installation. “Before electricity, we conducted deliveries using candles and torches,” she said. “It was risky for both mothers and babies, especially when complications arose at night. We also lost valuable vaccines and medicines because we could not refrigerate them properly. With electricity, those challenges are now behind us. We can provide safer and more reliable care for our patients.”
The event was attended by local traditional leaders, education officials, health representatives, and community members who expressed joy and appreciation for the milestone. Various representatives from the energy sector also attended, underscoring the importance of the project.