Zimbabwe is set to unveil its strategic energy ambitions at the 2025 Africa Energy Week (AEW), as the country prepares to cement its place in Africa’s emerging gas sector.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa will address the summit, scheduled from September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town, highlighting Zimbabwe’s growing role in the continent’s energy landscape.
“President Mnangagwa’s participation reflects the country’s ambition to unlock the full potential of its energy sector and comes as international and regional companies develop projects in the natural gas and renewable energy sectors,” said the African Energy Chamber (AEC).
Central to Zimbabwe’s energy plans is the Cabora Bassa project, led by Australian company Invictus Energy. Located in northern Zimbabwe, the Mukuyu field has already yielded two significant gas discoveries since 2023, signalling the nation’s entry into Africa’s new gas frontier.
The government is finalising an oil production sharing agreement with Invictus and has granted the project national project status, providing tax incentives, duty exemptions, and fast-track permitting.
A third exploration well, Musuma-1, is expected to target new geological formations later this year, potentially boosting Zimbabwe’s gas reserves further.
“Zimbabwe is an excellent example of a frontier energy market with considerable potential,” said NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the AEC. “As Africa’s energy demand continues to grow, frontier markets like Zimbabwe will play a pivotal role in the next era of development.”
Beyond natural gas, Zimbabwe is expanding its regional fuel infrastructure, including upgrades to the Beira Corridor pipeline from Mozambique, which will increase capacity from three to five million cubic metres annually by 2027. The country is also investing in coal and hydropower, with coal production projected to rise by 10.5% this year and joint initiatives with Zambia aiming to restart several coal-fired power plants.
Hydroelectric projects such as Batoka Gorge, Lake Mutirikwi, and Osborne Dam are expected to enhance domestic electricity generation, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s commitment to a diversified and sustainable energy portfolio.
As Zimbabwe positions itself at the forefront of Africa’s energy frontier, the AEW platform will serve as a key stage to showcase its ambitions and attract regional and international investment.
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