ZINWA expands solar-powered water supply as 26 stations switch from diesel

Theseus Mauruki Shambare

THE Zimbabwe National Water Authority (ZINWA) has embarked on a wide-ranging infrastructure modernisation drive that has seen 26 water supply stations across the Runde Catchment being converted from diesel-powered systems to solar energy, in a move aimed at improving efficiency, reducing operational costs and strengthening rural water security.

The development forms part of a broader transformation agenda being rolled out by the authority, which also includes improved water security for agriculture, expansion of prepaid water metering systems, digital service delivery tools and investment in dam-based economic opportunities.

According to ZINWA, the solarisation programme was implemented during the first and second quarters of 2026, targeting remote and underserved communities where diesel dependency had previously increased operational costs and service disruptions.

A pilot 264kW solar system installed at Murehwa Water Supply Station is currently being tested for potential national rollout, signalling a shift towards renewable energy-powered water infrastructure across the country.

ZINWA head of corporate communications and marketing, Mrs Marjorie Munyonga, said the solarisation initiative reflects the authority’s commitment to sustainable and transparent service delivery.

“This newsletter was born out of a simple but vital realisation: transparent, consistent communication is the bedrock of excellent service,” said Mrs Munyonga.

She said the shift from diesel to solar power was not only an operational improvement but also a long-term investment in resilience and sustainability.

“In transforming our water supply systems, we are reducing reliance on costly diesel energy while ensuring that rural and peri-urban communities receive more reliable water services,” she said.

The solarisation programme includes stations such as Bhasera, Chirowe, Rupike, Deure, Sino-Chikuku, Gezani, Malipati, New Boli, Sango Border Post, Nyahombe, Tetemi, Mushandike, Lundi-Siboza, Mataga, Chidyamakono, Masvosva and Guniku/Mukosi, among others.

Beyond energy reforms, ZINWA says water security remains a key pillar of national food production, with Government targeting 140 500 hectares under winter cropping for wheat, barley and potatoes.

As of early June 2026, national dam levels averaged 91.9 percent, with major dams such as Tugwi-Mukosi, Mtshabezi and Siya recording full capacity, providing a strong foundation for irrigation-led agriculture.

“The high dam levels we are witnessing are critical for sustaining winter cropping programmes and strengthening national food security,” said Mrs Munyonga.

She added that water availability must be matched with efficient infrastructure and management systems to maximise agricultural output.

In parallel with energy reforms, ZINWA is also expanding its prepaid water meter programme, which has already been implemented in several towns including Karoi, Gokwe, Hwange, Nyanga, Chivhu, Mutoko and Guruve, with Nyika and Chirundu next in line.

In Chirundu alone, 659 prepaid meters are set to replace postpaid systems, a move residents say will improve billing transparency and resolve long-standing disputes.

ZINWA has also introduced the “Donhodzo” WhatsApp chatbot, a digital platform that allows clients to access services such as dam level updates, billing information, incident reporting and tariff details.

The authority says the combined reforms in energy, digital systems and infrastructure form part of a broader effort to modernise Zimbabwe’s water sector and unlock economic opportunities linked to dams, irrigation and tourism development.

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