On Thursday, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa inaugurated a power plant financed by China to reduce the country’s energy deficit. On the eve of national elections, he held a series of inaugurations to reassure voters about the state of the economy. Aged 80, he is seeking a second term as president on August 23.
The Hwange power plant: a crucial hope for energy in Zimbabwe
He opened a coal mine on Monday and a clinic on Wednesday, before visiting the north-western town of Hwange on Thursday to launch the 600 MW coal-fired power station. Zimbabweans vote on August 23 to elect their president and parliament in a tense atmosphere. For months, the opposition has been denouncing growing repression in this landlocked southern African country, which is struggling with hyperinflation, poverty and high unemployment.
Addressing supporters at a local stadium after the inauguration, Mr. Mnangagwa said the new plant would be “a key catalyst for development”, adding that Zimbabwe was “open for business”.
Zimbabwe has long suffered from power shortages, with outages of up to 19 hours a day in 2022. However, in July, the government announced a sudden end to power cuts. Despite this announcement, many parts of the country continue to experience daily outages of a few hours’ duration, testifying to persistent energy supply challenges. These shortages are having a major impact on the daily lives of Zimbabweans and on the country’s economy, which is already struggling with hyperinflation, poverty and high unemployment.
Chinese investment of $1.2 billion in Hwange power plant
The power plant is financed by a $1.2 billion loan from China. It is one of four energy projects being undertaken in the country. Harare’s historical links with China date back to the struggle for independence from Britain.
“China is always ready to help Zimbabwe achieve its goal of uplifting its people,” said Chinese ambassador Zhou Ding at the stadium gathering.
Due to payment arrears, Zimbabwe is unable to obtain financing from international donors such as the IMF and the World Bank. Western punitive measures target Zimbabwe for accusations of corruption and rights violations, to which Mr. Mnangagwa attributes the country’s disastrous situation. However, the United States and Europe deny any responsibility for the crisis.
Mnangagwa promises energy self-sufficiency and economic growth at the inauguration of the Hwange power plant.
