Zimbabwe’s approval of a $650 million floating solar project has renewed questions surrounding a controversial energy contract linked to late businessman Wicknell Chivayo.
The proposed 600-megawatt solar plant on Lake Kariba is expected to boost electricity generation and reduce the country’s reliance on hydropower amid persistent power supply challenges.
However, the announcement has drawn fresh attention to the Gwanda Solar Project, awarded to Chivayo’s company, Intratrek Zimbabwe, in 2015.
The $172.8 million project was designed to generate 100 megawatts of electricity but suffered years of delays and legal disputes.
The Zimbabwe Power Company had advanced about $5 million to the contractor, raising questions about project delivery and the use of funds.
The controversy resurfaced following allegations by Chivayo’s brother, Joachim Chivayo, who claimed he sold vehicles worth approximately $220,000 to provide money connected to the project. His claims have not been independently verified.
Chivayo’s death has also raised questions about the future of his business interests and outstanding contractual obligations.
The newly approved Kariba project represents another major investment in Zimbabwe’s renewable energy sector.
However, the history of the Gwanda development highlights the importance of transparency, accountability and effective monitoring of public infrastructure contracts.
As Zimbabwe pursues new energy investments, attention will remain on whether the latest project can deliver the promised electricity while avoiding the setbacks that have characterised previous developments.
