.png)
The government has hailed the handover of the Blanket Mine solar power plant to CrossBoundary Energy as a milestone in Zimbabwe’s journey toward a greener, more resilient economy.
By Ryan Chigoche
The 12.2 MW plant, developed by Caledonia Mining Corporation to power its Blanket Mine operations, was officially transferred to CrossBoundary Energy last week.
The move aligns with national efforts to promote independent power production and expand access to clean energy across strategic sectors.
In a speech read on his behalf at the handover ceremony, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution in Matabeleland South, Abedinico Nguluvhe, said the project stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through coordinated action between government and private investors.
“This project exemplifies the power of collaboration between government, the private sector, and local communities to harness renewable energy for economic growth,” said the Minister.
He noted that the solar plant fits squarely within the objectives of National Development Strategy 1, Vision 2030, and global climate action frameworks. The government sees such projects as key enablers of provincial industrialisation, energy security, and economic inclusion.
Nguluvhe underscored that the benefits of the plant go far beyond powering a mine. It supports local development through infrastructure upgrades, skills training, and job creation, contributing to long-term resilience in the region.
“It powers local development, job creation, and economic resilience in our province,” he added.
The Minister called for similar models to be replicated across other districts and sectors, urging continued momentum in rolling out clean energy solutions that align with the government’s devolution and development agenda.
With energy supply remaining a critical enabler of mining and industrial growth, the government reiterated its commitment to supporting partnerships that promote sustainable infrastructure while unlocking the full economic potential of the provinces.
