By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare – The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is confronting a significant energy crisis, with recent estimates revealing that at least half of its member states have less than 50 percent access to electricity.
This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need for regional reforms and investment to bridge the energy gap and support sustainable development.
The concern was voiced during the opening of the five-day Regional Energy Regulators Association of Southern Africa (RERA) sub-committee meetings in Harare on Wednesday.
Energy and Power Development Permanent Secretary Gloria Magombo highlighted that regulatory and financial challenges are key obstacles preventing the region from expanding its electricity access and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.
“There is an urgent need for policy reform and regulatory streamlining to unlock the potential of renewable energy sources,” Magombo stated.
“Without these reforms, the region’s energy deficit will persist, hindering progress in health, education, and economic development,”she added.
The region’s reliance on fossil fuels, particularly coal, remains a major concern amid growing commitments to climate change mitigation. Magombo called for increased investment in renewable energy, especially solar and wind, to diversify sources and improve access for millions of people.
Funding constraints and lengthy licensing procedures have been identified as major barriers to renewable projects and grid expansion.
Magombo urged regional regulators to develop harmonized policies and streamline approval processes to accelerate the deployment of renewable infrastructure and cross-border interconnectors.
“Regional interconnectors and shared infrastructure are vital for enhancing cross-border electricity trade and ensuring energy security,” she added. “But these initiatives require coordinated policies and increased investment from development finance institutions.”
Ngoni Ranga, acting CEO of the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA), reinforced the importance of regional cooperation, emphasizing that platforms like RERA are crucial for developing effective regulatory frameworks that attract investment and foster innovation.
“Zimbabwe is proud to host these discussions, which are essential for shaping a resilient and inclusive energy sector,” Ranga said.
“By working together, we can overcome regulatory hurdles and unlock the region’s renewable energy potential.”
The outcomes of the RERA meetings are expected to influence regional energy policies significantly, paving the way for a more integrated, sustainable, and electrified Southern Africaan essential move toward economic resilience and improved livelihoods across the region.