By Heather Buzuzi
In the dusty coalfields of Hwange, where black smoke rises from chimneys, and in Muzarabani, where crude oil exploration is underway, Zimbabwe stands at a critical crossroads.
While many countries are moving toward clean energy solutions, Zimbabwe continues to invest in fossil fuels, despite the devastating impact of climate change being felt across the country.
For Jussa Kudherezera, the Director of the Manica Youth Assembly (MAYA), this is a worrying trend. He believes Zimbabwe is falling behind as the rest of the world transitions to renewable energy. “The world is shifting away from fossil fuels, and Zimbabwe must not be left behind. Investing in coal and oil at this stage is not only harmful to the environment but also limits economic opportunities in the renewable energy sector,” Kudherezera said in an interview yesterday.
MAYA, a youth-led environmental organization, has been at the forefront of climate advocacy in Zimbabwe. In 2023, the group joined the global movement calling for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty, an international agreement aimed at phasing out fossil fuels and accelerating the shift to renewable energy.
The treaty has already been endorsed by over 350 signatories, including 101 Nobel Laureates, 3,000 scientists, and major cities like Barcelona, Vancouver, and Sydney.
Some Zimbabwean Members of Parliament have also backed the initiative, recognizing that fossil fuel dependency is no longer sustainable.
Zimbabwe currently relies on coal for 40% of its electricity, and its 553 million tonnes of coal reserves could last another 163 years if no shift is made toward clean energy. Additionally, the Muzarabani crude oil exploration project is moving forward, despite concerns from environmental activists.
But for MAYA, these investments do not align with global climate commitments. Zimbabwe is a signatory to the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels by cutting carbon emissions.
“Climate change is no longer a distant threat—it is already here. We are witnessing erratic rainfall patterns, extreme heatwaves, and declining agricultural yields. Continuing to burn fossil fuels will only make the situation worse,” says a statement from MAYA’s Environmental Department.
Zimbabwe’s agriculture-based economy is already feeling the impact. Farmers in Manicaland, Masvingo, and Matabeleland are struggling with unpredictable weather, which is affecting food security. The Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZimStat) recently reported that over 2.7 million people are food insecure, a situation worsened by climate change.
Beyond the economic consequences, fossil fuel combustion has severe health impacts. People living near coal mines in Hwange and industrial centers in Bulawayo and Harare are exposed to high levels of air pollution, which can cause respiratory diseases, heart conditions, and other health complications.
Despite these challenges, Zimbabwe has massive potential for renewable energy—but progress has been slow. The National Renewable Energy Policy of 2019 outlines ambitious targets, including:
1,575MW from solar power by 2030
150MW from small hydropower stations
100MW from wind energy
1,000MW from biomass (agricultural and municipal waste)
50MW from geothermal energy (hot springs in Binga and Manicaland)
However, investments in these projects remain low, with government policies still favoring fossil fuels. Kudherezera believes this is a missed opportunity.
“Zimbabwe has enough sunshine to power the entire country if we make the right investments. Instead of exploring crude oil, we should be focusing on solar farms, wind power, and hydropower stations,” he said.
One of the biggest concerns about moving away from fossil fuels is the impact on workers and communities that rely on the coal and oil industries. Many jobs in Hwange’s coal mines and fuel distribution sectors would be affected if Zimbabwe moves toward renewable energy.
MAYA insists that a “just transition” must be a priority. Kudherezera explains that shifting to clean energy should not mean abandoning workers, but rather creating new opportunities in the green economy.
“A just transition means we do not abandon the communities and workers who have depended on the fossil fuel industry. Instead, we create new opportunities that will support livelihoods while protecting the planet,” he said.
This would require job retraining programs, social safety nets, and investment in alternative industries such as solar panel manufacturing, wind turbine maintenance, and biofuel production.
While the Zimbabwean government has expressed commitment to climate goals, its actions tell a different story. Large-scale coal projects are still being approved, and China continues to invest in coal-powered infrastructure in the country.
MAYA is determined to push for change. The organization has vowed to engage policymakers, civil society, and businesses to ensure Zimbabwe endorses the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty and develops a clear plan for transitioning to renewable energy.
“The future is clean energy. The sooner Zimbabwe realizes this, the better. If we make the right decisions today, we can build an energy system that is not only sustainable but also provides economic opportunities for young people, women, and marginalized communities,” Kudherezera concluded.
As the global movement to phase out fossil fuels gains momentum, Zimbabwe faces a critical decision. Will it seize the opportunity to lead in renewable energy development, or will it continue investing in a declining industry? The answer to this question could shape the country’s economic and environmental future for generations to come.