The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE has electrified the majority of its rural schools and hospitals, Parliament has heard.
In a report on how the rural electrification programme has progressed, the Portfolio Committee on Energy and Power Development said a significant number of public institutions in rural areas are now connected to the national power grid.
The report was tabled before the National House of Assembly by the Committee’s chairperson and Binga South Member of Parliament, Joel Gabuza, last week.
“As at March 30 2021, a total of 9 577 rural institutions were electrified since the establishment of the fund in 2002.
“The rate of electrification of rural public institutions was estimated at 60 percent for primary schools, 72 percent for secondary schools, and 88 percent for rural health centres,” Hon Gabuza said.
According to the report, the installations are also incorporating green energy.
“It was indicated that about 419 solar mini grid systems were installed at rural school and health centres between 2007 and 2021.
“Additionally, 82 biogas digesters were constructed at public institutions such as boarding schools, hospitals and prisons between 2012 and 2021, while 433 mobile solar systems were installed at remote rural centres,” said Hon Gabuza.
The ongoing rural electrification programme is guided by the Rural Electrification Master plan, which was adopted by Government in 2016.
