Zimbabwe, Zambia seek innovative solutions to harness Zambezi

Zambia and Zimbabwe have agreed to shift from their long-standing reliance on the Kariba Dam and the Zambezi River for power generation, pledging to explore new energy sources as drought-driven water shortages threaten regional power security.

The landmark resolution was reached during a high-level bilateral meeting held in Harare yesterday between Zimbabwe's Minister of Energy and Power Development, July Moyo, and Zambia's Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote.

The two ministers met to discuss joint strategies for managing the rapidly declining water levels in the Kariba Dam, which have severely curtailed hydroelectric output for both nations. The discussions also focused on identifying sustainable alternatives to ensure long-term energy stability.

Zambia, which depends on hydropower for more than 85 percent of its electricity generation, has been hit hardest by the prolonged drought, leading to widespread power shortages.

Minister Chikote, who humorously noted that he had earned the nickname "Minister of Loadshedding", stressed the urgent need for innovation in the region's energy mix.

"We have to look beyond Kariba. The two countries have to look beyond the Zambezi River. That is their responsibility," he said.
"This is where our forefathers started, and we must continue building on what they established. We need to be role models in encouraging other countries in the region to come on board."

Chikote underscored that energy security is central to economic growth, particularly for critical industries such as mining and agriculture, which depend heavily on reliable electricity.

"If we want to increase production in mining, we need to look at how we are going to manage our energy sector. What new ideas are we bringing on board to ensure we meet the targets we have set for ourselves?" he asked.

In response, Minister Moyo welcomed the bilateral dialogue, describing it as an important milestone in strengthening regional energy cooperation. He said that while the drought posed challenges, it also presented opportunities for innovation.

"Those challenges also bring opportunities to think of alternatives in the energy sector, which drives our economies. You and I have a big task," Moyo said.

He added that Zimbabwe's expanding irrigation systems - which have supported record wheat surpluses over the past two years - required a stable power supply, making diversification a national priority.

"Our economies are growing. In the agriculture sector, especially climate-proofing agriculture in the case of Zimbabwe, we can boast that we have surplus wheat, but that needs irrigation, and irrigation needs power," Moyo said.

The two ministers also committed to deepening cooperation beyond hydropower, including joint exploration and development of fossil fuel and gas resources to enhance regional energy resilience.

The move marks a significant policy shift for both nations, which have historically depended on the Kariba hydroelectric system as the backbone of their power generation. With climate change intensifying drought cycles in southern Africa, the new partnership signals a strategic realignment toward a more diversified and sustainable energy future.