Zimbabwe and Mozambique Sign Energy Cooperation Deal to Tackle Regional Power Challenges

Zimbabwe and Mozambique have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening bilateral collaboration in electricity, petroleum, and renewable energy sectors, amid growing calls for regional unity in addressing Southern Africa’s persistent power challenges.

The agreement was signed in Maputo at the ongoing Mozambique Mining and Energy Conference and Exhibition by Zimbabwe’s Minister of Energy and Power Development, July Moyo, and his Mozambican counterpart, Estâvão Pale. The high-level event was officially opened by Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo and brought together key regional stakeholders in the energy and mining sectors.

The newly signed MOU lays the groundwork for enhanced cooperation in energy infrastructure development, investment promotion, and cross-border trade. It also provides a framework for both countries to jointly identify and implement projects related to electricity generation and transmission, petroleum trading, natural gas utilisation, and renewable energy expansion.

“This MOU is a milestone in our efforts to build a resilient and integrated energy sector between Zimbabwe and Mozambique,” Minister Moyo said during the signing ceremony. “Our technical teams have worked tirelessly to identify priority areas of cooperation, and we are optimistic that this partnership will unlock new opportunities for both countries.”

Moyo also highlighted the strategic geographical location of Zimbabwe within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), stating that the country could serve as a power distribution hub for the region. “Our central position gives us a unique advantage in facilitating energy trade through improved transmission networks,” he noted.

The signing of this MOU comes at a critical time for SADC, which is grappling with chronic electricity shortages. Several member states, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, have been experiencing rolling blackouts due to a combination of ageing infrastructure, limited investment, and fluctuating water levels affecting hydroelectric generation.

The Zimbabwe-Mozambique energy pact is expected to encourage cooperation between their national energy utilities, which could include Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) and Electricidade de Moçambique (EDM). These partnerships could pave the way for joint ventures in generation, distribution, and renewable energy projects that support the region’s broader energy security goals.

The MOU also positions both countries to attract greater investment from regional and international energy players, particularly in the areas of petroleum storage and distribution, natural gas exploration, and solar and hydroelectric power development.

As Southern Africa intensifies efforts to build a more resilient and interconnected energy system, the agreement between Zimbabwe and Mozambique signals a forward-looking commitment to regional integration and sustainable development. It also reflects a shared understanding that overcoming energy challenges requires coordinated action and long-term partnerships.

With implementation now in focus, both governments have pledged to maintain momentum and ensure the timely execution of agreed-upon initiatives that will boost power supply, stimulate investment, and enhance the quality of life for citizens in both nations.