Patricia Moyo
ZANU PF Campaigns for the 23rd August harmonized elections under the incumbent Emmerson Mnangwagwa seem to be entirely focused on Matabeleland, a region which of late has been on the spotlight for its vast natural resources.
The region has over the years been largely neglected by the Zanu PF led governments when it comes to development. But now with the discovery of profitable natural resources such as lithium and methane gas, the Emmerson Mnangagwa led government which is tactically weaponizing “complete” and pledging long overdue developmental projects eyes to win over voters in a bid to rule the region.
It is apparent that the ruling party will use all means necessary to ensure Mnangwagwa’s re-election, even if it involves the rebuilding of Hwange power plants with it’s coal units which are as old as 1983.
These units which have in the past years been breaking down and running on one generator need no microscopic analysis to acknowledge that they have outlived their lifespan, and have not been replaced but in yet another political ploy right in the edge of elections, President Emmerson Mnangwagwa commissions the US$1,5 billion Hwange Power Station Unit 7 and 8 expansion project to “end load shedding.”
With the other units already way past their lifespan, load shedding will still persist and the two newly added units to end load shedding is a far fetched reality.
The locals in the coal mining town are said to be excited with stakeholders believing the investment will bring positive impact.
The Hwange Units 7 and 8 Expansion Project is no doubt an essential milestone for Zimbabwe, as it fulfils one of the many promises made by President Emmerson Mnangagwa through the National Development Strategy (NDS1).
On paper, there will be no more load shedding.
“Today we are commissioning Hwange 7 and 8 as a result of the meeting. This is the Second Republic, which delivers,” said the President
“We now say, for now, bye-bye load shedding. Of course, as our economy grows, we shall expand our generation capacity to meet the growing production needs.”
“We have also developed and modernised our agriculture sector and we are now food secure for the past three years. Now we are energy sufficient.” Added the President.
Zimbabwe in 2019 and 2020 experienced severe food deficity with basic commodities such as mealie meal running out of stock. Hunger crisis is still in existence and the leader of the country turned down 50,000 tonnes of free grain from Russian President Vladimir Putin during the Russia- Africa summit, St Petersburg in preference for a Helicopter.
Revealing the hidden agenda behind commissioning of the Units, Minister of Health and Child Care, Vice President Chiwenga said that the guest of honour (President Emmerson Mnangwagwa) has come to open Unit 7 and 8. But we are in the campaign period, so the two will be one.
“As we head into harmonized elections, let’s vote for our President as the sole candidate. MPs and Cllrs will ensure the continuation of projects he initiated. Let’s take heed of the President’s call for peace, we want peace.
No one can build our country besides us. As Zimbabweans we are educated so let’s put our heads together and build our country.” Said the country’s number 2.
“Successful implementation of the project would not have been possible without the astute leadership of the Guest of Honour.” Added Chiwenga
Hwange Thermal Power plant is the country’s second largest power plant situated in Matabeleland North Province and has been running at 40% capacity.
Hwange is known for coal mines that produce an estimated 90 000 tonnes of coal per month.
There was a facelift of the coal mining town before the commissioning of Hwange 7 and 8.
Those behind the facelift of Hwange claim the locals were given first employment preference before extending to the entire population of Zimbabwe.
Zimbabwe has been facing high levels of unemployment for several years now, with many struggling to make ends meet and provide for their families. It is claimed the Hwange expansion project saw over 4 000 getting employment.
The project’s main goal is to close the gap in the current power supply by adding 600 MW of electricity to the national grid. Given that other units are currently operating in their old state, Zimbabweans can have a sense of relief momentarily.
Minister of Energy and Power Development Zhemu Soda says the project has changed the face of energy in Zimbabwe. The expansion Project, is set to increase the national electricity supply by 600 megawatts, as part of President Mnangagwa’s vision to achieve an upper-middle-income society by 2030.
This contributes immensely to the key aspirations of the National Development Strategy (NDS1) and Vision 2030, which is targeted to contribute in achieving energy self-sufficiency.
The Hwange expansion project has also coincided with the 42km pipeline project that connects Deka High Lift Pump Station to Hwange Power Station which is critical to enhanced operationalisation of the Hwange Thermal Power Station. The scope of the project also includes the refurbishment of the Hwange Water Treatment Plant.
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