Zimbabwe’s mining sector is grappling with significant power supply challenges as demand outpaces production, according to Chamber of Mines CEO Isaac Kwesu.
Speaking on the state of the industry, Kwesu highlighted that electricity demand by mines has surged from 280 megawatts (MW) in 2010 to 700MW today, driven by sustained sector growth.
With projections indicating a sharp rise in demand beyond 2,000MW in the coming years, the mining industry’s requirements will far exceed the country’s current electricity generation capacity.
In response, many mining companies are investing in private power generation to bridge the gap, underscoring the urgent need for infrastructure upgrades to support the sector’s expansion.
