Publication date: April 2025
Author: IRENA
Description: This report highlights the transformative potential of decentralised renewable energy (DRE) solutions in strengthening Zimbabwe's agricultural sector, which supports 70% of the population and accounts for as much as 14% of the nation’s GDP. Focusing on five key value chains (maize, groundnuts, tomatoes, mangoes and fisheries), the study identifies critical energy gaps hindering productivity, such as lack of access to irrigation pumps, cold storage and post-harvest processing facilities. With only 12% of smallholder farmers connected to the grid, the report underscores the urgent need to address energy poverty to enhance rural livelihoods, ensure food security, and promote gender and youth empowerment.
