ZESA Holdings Megawatt Bulletin 2021

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END OF YEAR 2021
MESSAGE FROM THE
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN

Introduction ZESA continues to collaborate with other regional power
utilities like Eskom, HCB, and EDM in order to improve the
The business year 2021 has come to an end and I would like to power supply situation in the country.
extend the profound appreciation of the Board to you all for the
dedication and commitment you have displayed under very

challenging socio-economic circumstances in the country. I We are also facilitating renewable energy investments with the
commend you all for your unparalleled efforts to transform the organization also having signed an Inter-Utility Memorandum
business culture and quality of service to our valued consumers. of Understanding with Rwanda Energy Group (REG) to
As we reflect upon these past twelve months and look forward collaborate on various key areas with in the sector.
with positivity to 2022, we need to acknowledge the challenges we
faced so that we can be able to mitigate them for a brighter Tariff
future.
The electricity tariff continued to be below the cost reflective
Operating Environment level, thus, seriously impacting on the Group’s ability to carry
out the necessary repairs and maintenance at power stations
The business encountered an unstable operating environment and upgrading of the transmission and distribution networks.
This situation has also been exacerbated by delays in
characterised by high inflation and foreign currency shortages. application of the approved tariff indexation formula, resulting
in erosion of the value of the tariff.
Inflation continued to haunt the ZESA Group as it increased the
The increase to the cost of supply is, however, against a
cost of electricity supply. Inadequate foreign currency for background of an almost static and non-cost reflective
electricity tariff. This mismatch has seen the Group posting
power imports, spares and other critical inputs adversely persistent losses, coupled with constrained cash flows.

affected the ZESA Group’s operations. Power supply remained The company has continued engaging the Zimbabwe Energy
Regulatory Authority (ZERA) and the Ministry of Energy and
critical, as local generation was constrained, due to ageing Power Development for a tariff adjustment that is cost
reflective and we have been promised that this is on its way.
equipment, which has posed some reliability concerns. The
Revenue Collection and Culture Transformation
Group’s four coal power stations namely Hwange, Munyati,
The issue of revenue collection cannot be over emphasized and
Harare and Bulawayo Power Station, operated intermittently I implore you to consolidate all efforts in ensuring that we
collect
and continue to be hampered by forced outages mainly all that belongs to us and recover the more than 15 billion
dollars we are owed by various customers. Failure to collect
attributed to ageing equipment. revenue has become one of the major drawbacks in equipping
our business in general. As part of the Revenue Assurance
Stabilisation of Internal Generation initiatives, we are in
the process of modernizing the metering system and I am glad
Stabilisation of internal generation is one of the priority areas to advise you that the Smart metering project is now at an
that we continue to invest in, not only to achieve security of advanced stage, as it will go a long way to ensure revenue
electricity supply but to narrow the demand - supply gap assurance and protection, as it technologically equips us to
through minimisation of power imports to conserve foreign account for every dollar in the interest of operational efficiency.
currency. I would like to convey a message of appreciation to the
government of Zimbabwe for its continued support to enhance Coupled with this, we also need to enhance customer
economic prosperity through implementation of the National experience and responsiveness and there needs to be a
Development Strategy (NDS1) initiatives. We are complimenting continuous implementation of Culture Change and
this through multi-pronged initiatives and measures to enhance Transformation Programmes, thus, positively impacting on
the country’s power supply situation. service delivery.


The establishment of a National Contact Centre to attend to all
Hwange 7 & 8 Expansion Project is expected to add 600MW to
the national grid. Despite the COVID-19 induced delays, the customer needs is a step in the right direction and we are in the
organisation has developed a robust and comprehensive
recovery plan to recover on the lost time. process of digitalising the whole process so that we continue to



The Group is prioritising the refurbishment of Hwange’s units 1
to 6 in order to enhance electricity power supply. A facility of
US$ 310 million has been arranged through India Exim Bank and
is earmarked to finance Hwange units 1 to 6 life extension.

The Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has licensed
a number of Independent Power Producers, but fruition of the
earmarked projects has been slow, as the environment has not
been conducive. We hope that the economic environment will
improve so that they contribute to the resolution of the current
power shortage in the country.

attend to customers virtually. Page 2

Page 2

Operational Vehicles and Transformers Corruption, Illegal Connections and Poor
Billing Audits
During the year 2021, we managed to procure 126 operational
vehicles and 200 transformers which were commissioned by His Corruption remains one of the key enemies and retrogressive
Excellency President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa on 1 July force that confront our organisation and my office remains
2021. I can confirm that we have just completed awarding a committed to eradicating it as it has become counter-productive
tender of an additional 200 vehicles and delivery is expected in to the organisation.
the first quarter of 2022. Some staff members continue to solicit for bribes to offer service
to consumers while some employees are engaging in illegal
All these efforts are targeted at re-equipping the business and I electricity connections with some generally lacking courtesy in
am sure that the continuous delivery of operational vehicles, their engagement with customers, among a series of corrupt
transformers, and other critical spares and materials are positive tendencies in the organisation. Some customers continue to use
steps in creating an enabling environment for efficient electricity for free due to faulty and compromised meters and no
operations. reconciliation of energy sent out against energy billed is taking
place. This needs to be done regularly as such reports are readily
Staff Morale available from the billing system.
I would like to warn all perpetrators to desist from this as due
I am mindful of the various employee welfare issues prevailing processes of the law shall also be enlisted to deal with such
which include the erosion of employee salaries due to the rogue elements and lack of attention in the organisation.
exchange fluctuations, medical aid shortfalls and pension fund
issues among others. I assure you that the board and Theft and Vandalism
management are seized with the various issues as we are
cognisant that attending to staff welfare issues will boost the Theft and vandalism of electrical infrastructure and electricity
morale and enhance industrial productivity. has also become a major drawback to efficient service delivery
Moreover, now that there is noticeable traction in the upward and growth of the national electricity grid. Materials and
movement of the tariff, I can assure you that the 2022 business equipment that is meant for network expansion end up being
year will be viable as we aim to restore operational efficiency in utilised for replacement purposes. I am happy that we are
ZESA. continuing to work closely with all key stakeholders to contain
this scourge and there will be sustained efforts to curb
Given the forgoing, we will waste no time in pushing the business vandalism and theft and I urge you all to take part in deterring
to be viable, including staff welfare issues, as we believe that a such.
harmonious industrial relations climate is a key factor of In conclusion, I want to thank you all for the sustained
production and should be prioritised in our business strategy teamwork and determination and I would like to wish you a
and vision. Merry Christmas and A Prosperous New Year. Please stay safe
and always adhere to the COVID-19 safety precautions.
COVID 19 Pandemic Additionally, I want to urge those that have not been
inoculated to consider vaccination and protect themselves and
Throughout the year, we have responded and adapted to the their families
pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic led to loss
of critical staff members and delayed projects due to lockdowns.
It is with deep sorrow to announce that we lost 54 employees
during the year, and since 2020 , a total of 24 employees
succumbed to Covid-19. I want to take this opportunity to
remember all the team members we lost, may their dear souls
continue to rest in eternal peace.

Furthermore, the pandemic severely affected our business. As DR. S.Z GATA
for the larger part of the year, we could not congregate for
meetings while some occasions such as the Long Service,
Retirement and Risk Awards functions were compromised and
could not be held.

Page 3

ZPC Lounge…

DEKA UPGRADE COMMENCES

The upgrade of the Deka pumping station to solve the Contractor’s camp under construction
perennial water supply challenges at the Hwange thermal The project is being implemented in parallel to the Hwange
power plant and its environs commenced on 1st October Unit 7 and 8 Expansion project and is expected to solve the
2021, marking a major milestone since the signing of the perennial water supply problem at Hwange Power Station, the
contract at the beginning of the year 2021. country’s largest coal-fired power plant, which currently requires
about 3 500m³ of raw water per hour for power generation.
The works encompassed the construction of a new
42-Kilometre/960mm diameter pipeline from Deka high This is expected to increase to about 6 000m³ per hour when
lift pump station to the Hwange Thermal Power the two expansion units (7 and 8) are in operation hence
plant, complete with independent cathodic protection, stimulating economic growth that is driven by additional power
supply of spare pumps and motors. to the grid and further employment needs.

In an interview, Fadzai Chisveto (Public Relations Executive) The project will also benefit the Deka community through provision
of the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) said that the of water by providing three taps along the pipeline. These taps will
upgrade programme also includes the supply of spares for enhance the community’s nutritional gardens, among other uses*
Deka Low and High Lift pump stations, new SCADA and
field instruments, refurbishment of ZINWA Water Treatment ZPC RELOCATES RESIDENTS
Plant in Hwange and provision of three tap off points for
supply of raw water to the Deka community. The Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) has started the
construction of houses for relocation of residents that were
Since its commencement, equipment has been mobilised living within the transmission and distribution path
to site for excavation works and site clearance, while (Wayleave) of the Hwange 7 and 8 expansion project.
construction of the contractor’s camp is almost complete.
Wayleave regulations and legal provisions state that there should
“The Deka project is funded from a Line of Credit not be interference with bulk transmission infrastructure within a
(LOC) extended by the Government of India to the radius of 30 Metres from either sides while non-interference
Government of Zimbabwe. It buttresses bilateral relations distances of 7.5 Metres on either side should be observed by
between Government of India and Zimbabwe. It will also consumers with regards to distribution infrastructure, especially
bring capacity building through skills, technology within customer premises.
transfer and cultural diversity,” said Chisveto.

The new houses that are being constructed by ZPC will ensure that
there is no interference with the efficient reticulation of electricity -
by fauna and flora - while the affected communities are also
assured of improved living conditions due to the inception of the
new transmission line in Matebeleland North and Bulawayo. The
areas affected by the construction of the transmission line include
Bambani Village, Dete-Chizhou, Gwayi Siding, Saw Mills Thebe,
Epping Forest, Stevenson Farm, Kloof Farm, Mazwi Village, Hope
Fountain and Woolandale Farm.

Excavation of pipe trenching

3 bedroomed house is under construction in Hope fountain

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2 bedroomed house at completion stage in Epping forest The Scope of the Transmission and Distribution Works
include new bulk substations at Hwange and Sherwood
The 360KM high voltage transmission line for evacuating as well as the extensions to existing Insukamini and Marvel
power from Hwange to Insukamini and Marvel Substations substations. The Transmission and Distribution line stringing
in Bulawayo is under construction to ensure the efficient commenced in July 2021 and so far, a distance of over
reticulation of power from the US$1.48 billion Hwange 120km has been covered.
Thermal Power Station Expansion Project.
Meanwhile, plans are at an advanced stage for the relocation
The new power line will run adjacent to the existing lines to of Ingagula residents who have for years been affected
enable transmission of additional power as well as by coal residue from generation at Hwange Power Station in
maintain grid stability. their homes.

Construction of the 80 houses began at the end of August ZPC has acquired land in Empumalanga phase 6 for the
2021 and the structures are currently at different phases of construction of 470 houses and the project is expected to
completion, amid expectations that they would all be ready commence in February 2022 and targeted for completion
for occupation within a few months. by September 2022.

A few houses are still at the foundation stage in Mazwi
village, while houses at Epping Forest are at completion
stage. The rest are at various levels, ranging from brick
work to wall plate level.

The relocation of residents has brought about creation of
employment in the affected areas as contractors are
absorbing Local labour. Since the inception of the project,
more than 300 jobs have been created, with some of the
contractors taking a step further to drill boreholes under
corporate social responsibility in arid areas hence solving
water supply challenges in the affected communities.

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HWANGE 7 & 8 EXPANSION PROGRESSING WELL

The expansion of the Hwange Thermal Power Station with two additional units (2x300MW) is progressing well and is now at
76.20% completion.

Hwange Units 7 and 8 ground breaking ceremony by His Excellency President Dr E.D Mnangagwa flanked
by the late national hero Cde S.K Moyo and other officials.

Unit 7 Generator Installation

Unit 8 Generator Transformer Page 6

sub-station construction
Foundation laying for Units 7 and 8

Advanced works at Unit 7 of the Hwange Extension project. Page 7

Despite the setbacks in timelines of the project completion Interesting technical facts on
dates due to the effects of the Covid 19 pandemic, a Hwange 7&8 Expansion Project.
number of milestones have been achieved to date and these
include the completion of the cooling tower shell, installation • The Hwange Thermal Power Plant units 7 and 8, including
of the generator stators for units 7 and 8, tower erection the existing plant, will generate an average of 1300 MW.
on the transmission and distribution side as well as installation
of steam turbines. • The Hwange Thermal Power Plant, with an installed capacity
of 1520 MW will become the largest Thermal Power Plant in
Upon completion, the project will enable self-sufficiency in Southern Africa, outside South Africa.
electricity generation and reduction in electricity imports hence
savings of foreign currency by the country. • A Cooling Tower with a height of 150M and a diameter of
120M at the base has been constructed for the project. This
The project will also be an enabler for Economic Growth with is the largest cooling tower in Southern Africa.
10% of the Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC)
contract going towards local resources. • The new power station utilizes flue gas cleaning technology,
which utilizes limestone. This has opened up opportunities
Skills transfer from foreign counterparts to the local community for limestone suppliers to deliver the product for plant
will also be done to ensure that the power utility gets full control operation.
of the project.
• The new plant also utilizes a stacker reclaimer for stacking
There will be creation of employment as approximately 5 000 and reclaiming of coal hence improving the operational
employees will be absorbed at peak, translating to 1 300 efficiency of coal handling from the mines and delivery to the
foreigners and 3 700 Zimbabweans. boilers.

Operation and Maintenance personnel will be 360, comprising • The project also entails construction of transmission
160 locals initially but increasing to 360 after 6 years. infrastructure to enable efficient delivery of power to
various parts of the country.

There will also be provision of new houses for the Hwange The new transmission and distribution infrastructure
community through the relocation of the entire Ingagula Township comprises the following:
community.
• Two new substations are rated at 330/400 kV in Hwange and
Scope of the Expansion Project 88/132/330 kV at Sherwood near Kwekwe.

The 7 and 8 Expansion Project entails the construction of • A new powerline rated at 400 kV is being constructed from
2x300MW units that are being added onto the existing 920MW Hwange to Insukamini, a substation in Bulawayo and another
Hwange Thermal Power Station, adding 600MW to the national powerline from Insukamini to Marvel Substation, which is
electricity grid. located in Bulawayo are also being constructed.

This is one of the key projects that are set to provide self- • The total length of the transmission line is 360km, with a
sufficiency to power generation in Zimbabwe. The total of 880 transmission towers.
EPC Contract for the project was signed on 10th October
2014, followed by efforts towards securing funding for the The expansion project is running parallel to the upgrading
project. of the Deka Pumping Station and construction of a 42km
water pipeline from the Deka River to the Hwange Thermal
A loan agreement with China Eximbank was signed in Power Station. This development is meant to solve the
December 2015, with the project commencing on 1st August perennial water supply challenges at the Power Station,
2018, following a ground breaking ceremony, which was which currently requires about 3 500m³ of raw water per
officiated by His Excellency the President of the Republic of hour for power generation. The uptake of water may
Zimbabwe Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa on 27th increase to about 6 000m³/hr when all eight units are in
June 2018. Due to its significance to the economy, the operation.
project has been granted a National Project Status.

The total project cost of US$1.5 billion comprises US$1.17
billion for EPC costs and the balance of approximately
US$330 million being development and financing costs.

The China Eximbank loan of US$998 million
covers 85% of the EPC costs and the rest of the funding for
the project comes from ZPC and Sinohydro, who are the
Project Contractors.

The Hwange 7 and 8 expansion project is the first
Public-Private Partnership project in the electricity sub-sector.

Page 8



ZETDC Lounge… The Honourable Minister of Local Government Cde July Moyo (Second
from left) with Zesa, AFDB and Goverment officials at the handover
ZETDC RECEIVES POST IDAI EMERGENCY ceremony in Harare.
RECOVERY EQUIPMENT

ZESA Holdings received a donation of equipment and operational
motor vehicles worthy USD$ 5,317,449.76
from the African Development Bank (AFDB) to enhance
post- Cyclone Idai Emergency Recovery and Resilience
efforts in the first phase of the continental bank’s
corporate social responsibility thrust.

An assortment of Tools and Equipment valued at USD$
88,943.53 were delivered to Chipinge and Chimanimani
AFDB unveiled an operational motor vehicle package
valued at USD$ 1,336,710.09 for post-Idai Preparedness
in Chimanimani and Chipinge

The donation is meant to adequately equip the power utility
with resources to counter the effects of the cyclone in
Chimanimani and Chipinge during flat destroyed
infrastructure

Dr Sydney Gata - Executive Chairman of ZESA Holdings (Left) ZETDC Eastern Region Management, employees and guests at the commissioning
receives keys of augur trucks from Cde July Moyo (Honourable ceremony of the post-Cyclone Idai Materials and equipment in Manicaland.
Minister of Local Government)
During Cyclone Idai in March 2019, there was extensive damage
He tests drives a vehicle. to electricity infrastructure, mainly in Chimanimani and Chipinge
areas, including Chipangayi. The trail of destruction affected
3 501 residents of Chimanimani as well as 6 381 residents of
Chipinge.

The damaged Infrastructure included 105.4km of 33kV
Distribution lines, 28.2km of 11kV Distribution lines, and 9.8km
of Medium Voltage Distribution lines, 6 x 33/11kV.

The equipment from AFDB is meant for the construction of
Primary Substations, 128 x 33/0.4kV and 11/0.4kV Pole Mounted
Secondary Substations, Weatherdac and underground cables
services.

In his address during the commissioning ceremonies at the
ZETDC Client Service Centres in Chimanimani and Chipinge, Dr
Sydney Gata (Executive Chairman) of ZESA Holdings said that
the National Civil Protection Unit mobilised Cyclone
response resources through multilateral donor bodies in respect
of immediate resuscitation of damaged infrastructure as well
as medium and long term building of resilience to future
emergency response.

Dr Gata expressed his appreciation that cyclone Idai struck
ZETDC Eastern Region in 2019, the power utility received
immediate response support in the form of fuel for operations,
access to emergency Helicopter services to ferry materials and
manpower to work sites as well as contingency funding of $1
million from the Government of Zimbabwe.

Page 10

ZETDC Eastern Region also received financial support The motor vehicles encompassed six 4x4 Ton Single Cab Pick Up
from ZESA Holdings to acquire drone technology for trucks, four 4x4 Eight Ton Crane Trucks, four 4x4 Three Ton
aerial surveillance of inaccessible network sections and Crane Trucks as well as two 4x4 Seven Ton Auger Trucks*
was granted emergency procurement dispensation from
the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe ZETDC’s Milestone Achievements in 2021
(PRAZ) to procure critical response vehicles, equipment,
materials and contractor services. The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company
(ZETDC) has embarked on various projects to support the
The affected ZETDC employees were also relocated to Government in the attainment of Vision 2030. These projects were
safe areas while mobilisation by the Head office of food mooted to be in sync with goals and ideals of the Transitional
provisions and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Stabilisation Programme (TSP) as well as the National
staff at affected depots. Post-trauma psycho-social Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and beyond. ZETDC is proud
support for staff at affected depots was also done. that it attained the following milestones during the business year
2021 to the best advantage of the socio-economic sphere of the
AFDB Resilience support nation:

Dr Gata said that the African Development Bank (AfDB) Net Metering
provided donor support that was coordinated
through the United Nations Office for Project Services ZETDC launched the Net Metering programme to enable
(UNOPS) agency under the National Development consumer that generate renewable energy on their premises to
Strategy 1 consistent Post Cyclone Idai Emergency feed excess power back into the ZETDC Network through a grid
Recovery and Resilience Programme (PCIERRP). tied invertor.

He was appreciative that Network Reinforcement Prepaid Metering
materials and equipment valued at USD$ 3,847,624.33
was availed. The total number of prepaid meters installed to date is 712,468,
including meters to empower domestic customers and other
AFDB bankrolled the construction of the 12km - 33kV small power users to manage their own consumption of
line from Chipinge 33kV substation to Clearwater 33kV electricity, address Metering, Billing and Colllection (MBC)
substation with designs having already been done challenges that the company was facing with the post-paid
while procurement of contractors was in progress. based Metering and Billing System. It also addressed the
challenge of revenue leakages and managed to reduce
The donation also encompassed the reinforcement of Commercial/Non-Technical Losses (NTL). After migration to
the 155km-33kV line from Middle Sabi 132kV prepaid metering, revenue leakages were reduced by 5% for the
substation to Charter 33kV substation in Chimanimani. domestic and small business.
The rehabilitation of the 4.5km -33kV line from
Gwindingwi to Charter 33kV substation in The challenge of bad debts was also resolved as customers were
Chimanimani was also prioritised with, designs having paying upfront for their consumption of electricity with the legacy
been done and materials that include prospective debt being loaded into the vending system and armotized over
supply of 7 x 33/11kV Power transformers for a period of time. The securitized debt was used as security for
primary substations in Chipinge and Chimanimani loans of up to US$300 million by ZESA. The loan and savings from
having been specified by UNOPS. improved revenue collection efficiency were used to recapitalise
the business and equipping operational teams to sustain
Prospective supply of 100 distribution transformers operations.
of various sizes was also specified by UNOPS.
Analysis carried out revealed efficiency improvements of up to
At the time of the commissioning of the donation, 11%. Improved usage efficiency by clients helped in reducing
Distribution materials valued at USD$44,171.81 were power import bills that are denominated in forex.
set to be delivered to Chimanimani. These included
18 x 12.6m intermediate wood-poles, Smart Metering
15,000m x 100mm2 ACSR conductor, 8 x wood cross
arms and Line accessories. The smart metering project, which is still in a pilot phase and
targeting Medium and Large Power Users will help
An assortment of Tools and Equipment valued at address Metering, Billing and Collection challenges for this
USD$ 88,943.53 were also delivered to Chipinge category of clients that contribute about 70% of company
and Chimanimani. The equipment included pulley hoists, revenue.
ladders, electric rotary hammers, drill bits sets, angle
grinders, angle grinder cutting disks and earth sets. Operation Musabe Magetsi/Lingebi Amagetsi

Operational Motor Vehicles ZETDC successfully launched Operation Musabe Magetsi/
Lingebi Amagetsi, the development that is meant to
AFDB also unveiled an operational motor vehicle package conscientise consumers to pay for their electricity consumption
that is valued at USD$ 1,336,710.09 for post-Idai and for them to avoid illegal collection.
Preparedness in Chimanimani and Chipinge.
The operation created deterrence to would be perpetrators
and it is anticipated that a rise in revenue streams would be
realised.

Page 11

Anti-Theft and Vandalism Feasibility studies for Phase 3 (10MVA supplies on 132kV line)
are in progress.
ZETDC installed Intrusion Detection and surveillance
systems as well as Deployment of screens and ZETDC TAKES MAJOR STEPS TO
transformer welding, among other strategies that RE-EQUIP THE BUSINESS
assist in curbing theft and vandalism. The power
utility has also harvested Copper and replaced it • More fault Locators to be sourced
with Aluminium conductor, as copper was the most
targeted of our infrastructure. ZESA Holdings has started making a giant leap-forward in
re- equipping and retooling the business in an effort to achieve
Self Service Portal operational efficiency to the best advantage of the consumers and
the power utility.
The Client Self Service portal was introduced to
empower customers to access services like prepaid The operations of the power utility had largely been hampered by
meter tokens, post-paid bills and other related inadequate and obsolete materials and equipment, lack of Personal
issues without physically visiting ZETDC but Protective Equipment (PPE) and a depleted fleet of operational motor
leveraging on technology, a timely intervention, vehicles, among other counter-productive elements that had also
especially in the COVID-19 era. The facility went a demoralised employees, especially technical staff.
long way to decongest the ZETDC banking halls.
In a response to address those anomalies that were largely brought
National Contact Centre about by lack of adequate financial resources due to sub-economic
tariffs, the power utility has started embarking on a journey to
A national contact centre was introduced for procure 1 800 operational vehicles in an effort to improve on
consumers to have a one-stop shop or centre the response time to electrical faults as well as other related
where they have their queries and general customer-service requirements.
inquiries addressed. The centre utilises all the
relevant latest technological platform, including In an update on the procurement of Tools and Equipment, PPE,
social media to improve customer experience and materials and distribution transformers, Engineer Howard
the ease of doing business. Choga (Acting Managing Director of ZETDC) said that the
organisation has taken decisive and progressive steps to re-equip
2nd Alaska – Sherwood Line x 159km and retool the business in an effort to improve service delivery and
customer experience.
The project that involves the construction of a 159
kilometre transmission lines covering The revelations by engineer Choga come at a time most ZETDC Client
Mashonaland West and Midlands provinces started in Service Centres (CSCs) are in urgent need of operational vehicles,
January 2016. Preparatory Facility Agreement was including Land Cruisers and Land Rovers that ply rough terrains.
done between DBSA and ZETDC. The Detailed
bankable feasibility report was done and completed Mr Nkosana Ncube, chairman of the Binga Workers Committee
done by Norconsult. Once completed, the project will said that as workers, they feel motivated when the organisation
bring system reliability and as well as growth of the channels resources towards equipping the workers to deliver,
electricity network as more customers be connected saying, “ZESA is our home and we do not want to have fading
to the national electricity grid. confidence yet we have the zeal and desire to deliver on
After financial closure, the time from engaging an customer expectations…”
Engineering Procuring and Construction (EPC)
contractor for the construction of the line and The re-equipping and re-tooling exercise is coming at a time the vice
substation facilities until the project is commissioned of theft and vandalism has retrogressively impacted on the
is estimated at 24 months. business of the power utility with an avalanche of consumers
going for prolonged periods without power and ZETDC has already
Alaska – Karoi 132kV Project set aside about 2 000 transformers to reconnect such consumers
that have been affected.
The project that entails the construction of a 132kV
transmission line at a cost of US$22.090 million ZETDC Northern Region has launched a project to refurbish its
between Alaska and Karoi started in July 2017 and is primary network switch gear system to restore reliability and
funded by AfDB in the form of a grant. The extension dependability. As at June 2021, the region had experienced 941
of the project to July 2022 was also granted by AfDB transformer failures due to theft and vandalism, lightning
and the EPC tender was awarded to Sino hydro. strikes, general electrical faults and insulation failures.
Sinohydro and ZETDC are now mobilizing for commencement
of the works. The line and substation works are expected to be "It is imperative to boost the morale of ZETDC staff and he said
commissioned by June 2023. that the organisation is already on a journey of procurement of
Tools and Equipment (T & E), Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Kanyemba Electrification as well as operational vehicles that are meant to be game
changers to the business of the power utility." said Engineer Choga.
The project that entails the electrification of
Kanyemba in Mashonaland Central province
started in January 2019.
Phase 1 of the project is being implemented to
connect ZESCO at Kanyemba) and Phase 2
resulting in the Rural Electrification Agency (REA)
constructing the 135km of 33kV line to
Kanyemba (3MVA supplies).

Page 12

ZETDC TO PROCURE MORE FOR OPERATIONAL VEHICLES

ZETDC targets to add 1 800 operational vehicles to its existing fleet.
The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) has budgeted USD30Million
to procure operational vehicles to beef up its fleet to ensure operational efficiency and improved
response to electrical faults.

ZETDC has so far procured and received 168 operational vehicles that have been broken down into 9 X UD 8 TON TRUCKS,
NP300 NISSAN, 50 X HALF TON NP 200 NISSAN for 952,950.00 and 9 X AUGER/CRANE TRUCKS.
The total fleet requirement of ZETDC is at least 1800 vehicles. Before the the delivery of an additional 168 vehicles, the
organisation (ZETDC) was operating at 36% and 985 vehicles are required to achieve a complete fleet.
There are expectations that delivery of vehicles will be done within the first quarter of 2022.

Engineer Choga said that such issues will be given their due attention on a case by case basis to ensure that appropriate
vehicle requirements are achieved going forward. To ensure that there is no vehicle abuse, tender evaluation of the tracking
management tool has already been done.
ZESA continues to be responsive to the needs and expectations of all its internal and external stakeholders since the dawn of
Dr Sydney Gata era of transforming the organization to the good old days of Moto Muzhinji*

Operation Musabe Magetsi/Lingebi Amagetsi launched …

ZETDC INVESTS $8M IN REVENUE ASSURANCE

45 suspects nabbed in Ushewokunze/Chigwende area in Harare South over illegal connections of
electricity
The blitz spreading like veld fire to all centres across the country

The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) has purchased forty Motor Bikes worth
$6 732 000.00, Riders’ gear that encompasses helmets, jackets, pants for $843 750.00 and invested $601 125.00 towards
Riders training to ensure safety, revenue assurance and protection.

Bikers in a pose after graduation at Donny Brooke with the bespectacled ZETDC General
Manager Engineer Abel Gurupira (Front Row in White shirt from right).

The investment is against the backdrop of illegal connections, culminating in theft of electricity as well as a compromise to
the safety of consumers. The launch of the Revenue Assurance and Protection “Heist” code-named “Operation Usabe
Magetsi/Lingebi Amagetsi” has taken place at a time 45 consumers out of 51 premises that have been inspected have been
arraigned before the courts over suspicions of illegal connection of electricity in Ushewokunze/Chigwende area in Harare
South. The Revenue Assurance and Protection operation is being undertaken throughout the country. Of the 40 Bikes,
ZETDC Harare Region purchased 26 motor bikes that were allocated to all the four Districts of the Region and to Loss
Control Section. The primary motive behind the purchase of the motor bikes was to increase both revenue generation and
collection through increased revenue assurance activities, while lowering operational costs.

Page 13

The Motor Bikes are twenty-four Dual Purpose Honda ACE 125 and two Off road Honda XL125 LKE.

Bikers taking off the commissioning venue in style. They were destined to Hopley suburb where they had
received a tip off that some consumers had illegal electricity connections.

In an effort to mitigate against road traffic accidents and Electricity is being progressively supplied by the private sector
prolong the life of the Motor Bikes, a week-long Training through Independent Power Producers. Today, only 1.5% of
Course was held at Donnybrook from 24 to 29 October energy in Zimbabwe is being supplied to the national grid,
2021 under the tutelage of Riders For Health Verdicon twenty years after opening up the sector to them.
Enterprises. The training was organized by the Region’s
Transport Controller Mr Sylvester Mugova. “In Zambia, 20% of electricity and energy is being supplied by
IPPs while 35% is being supplied by the same in Mozambique.
The training course covered Defensive Riding and Basic In Ireland, policy says the power utility cannot generate more
Motor Cycle Maintenance. In total, 30 riders were than 50% as the other portion for generation is allocated to
trained and eight of them had never ridden a cycle IPPs,” said Dr Gata. He said that for IPPs to progress, there
beforen while fourteen of them were inexperienced must be assurance that there is an enabling environment.
riders. Eight of them needed a refresher course. Turning to non-technical losses, the Executive Chairman said that
Speaking at the launch of Operation Usabe the current situation requires extra-ordinary measures as the
Magetsi/Lingebi Amagetsi, Dr Sydney Gata, Executive systems losses are at 19% against the international benchmark of
Chairman of ZESA Holdings said that ZESA prioritizes 10%. A total of 100 000 customers are still on load limiters, which
revenue assurance and protection in view of its valued is prone to leakages.
contribution to the National Development Strategy 1
(NDS1). “In our contribution to the NDS1 and master- The Executive Chairman lamented that some major corporates in
planning (2024) phase 1, we want to clear the 300 000 Zimbabwe are stealing electricity at a time the power utility is
customer backlog as well as the 200 000 new owed more than $15Billion by defaulting customers in all
connections of electricity…” he said. categories. “ZESA will be working with the Ministry of ICT to
digitalise revenue collection. I have a joint passion for
Dr Gata said that ZESA has to be a market leader in Sub- development of partnerships with ICT to achieve effective revenue
Saharan Africa in terms of the provision of electricity and collection,” said Dr Gata. Addressing at the same occasion, Cde
energy to its valued stakeholders. Magna Mudyiwa, the Deputy Minister of Energy and Power
Development said that ZESA should thrive to account for the
He said that demand of electricity still exceeds local $15Billion revenue that is locked with defaulting customers in line
generation and without revenue assurance, we do not with declaration of the President His Excellency Cde Emmerson
have adequate capacity to meet customer needs. Dambudzo Mnangagwa at the handover ceremony of operational
motor vehicles and transformers a few months back.
There are 23 new mining and smelting companies with
licenses and electricity utilization capacity of up to 2000 “So we have a mammoth task to ensure that we eradicate the debt
MW coming on the market hence ZESA is upping its game and that theft and vandalism is strategically dealt with as well. This
in terms of revenue and protection. initiative of introducing motor bikes is quiet commendable and will
go a long way to ensure that illegal connections are always put in
Dr Gata also implored Government to ensure that there check and protect the revenues of the organisation,” she said.
is a conducive operating environment for Independent
Power Producers (IPPs) to operate for them to The Acting Minister of Energy and Power Development, Honourable
compliment the power utility in the provision of Dr Jenfan Muswere said, “I am thrilled that there is a plan and
electricity and energy to the nation. modest implementation of the revenue protection operation
Musabe Magetsi/Lingebi Amagetsi, a revenue assurance
“The challenges that we face are revenue assurance, implementation modality that will eradicate the 5% that is reducing
develop and redevelop and finalise the development in the revenues of the power utility and going by the 2020 financial
view of public policy as it regulates the electricity and reports of ZESA, the percentage translates to $1.4Billion that needs
energy sector.
Page 14

to be extinguished.” Furthermore, a number of strategies aimed at curbing such illicit
activities continue to be adopted as well as heighten our vigilance
In the Electricity and Infrastructure pillar of the Vision through intelligence- led policing, increased visibility through
2030, electricity is a key driver of the economy hence the foot, cycle and motorised patrols as well as intensification of
importance of electricity in the primary, secondary and awareness campaigns.
tertiary industry is of utmost importance.
The Commissioner General underscored that the organisation
Guest of Honour Dr Muswere said that effective and remains committed to multi-stakeholder approach with all critical
sustainable distribution of power to the mining and role players who include but not limited to ZESA, TelOne and NRZ
industrial sectors is of critical importance, bringing in the as they collectively seek to ensure that the issuance of Copper
agility of ZESA technicians to plug in the loses that the Dealers licenses, among others is done in accordance with the
power utility has been experiencing. law.

“Commissioning of the bikes will ensure operational He appealed to the courts of law to mete out punitive and
efficiency of the revenue assurance programme. There deterrent sentences on all criminals convicted for theft and
can never be sustainability and favourable productivity vandalism of public utilities infrastructure.
without stability in the energy sector. ICT is the new oil
and for us to have growth in the Gross Domestic Product A representative of the riders Mr Clement Kadzunge (Revenue
(GDP), we need an integration of the two sectors, “he said. Assurance Assistant at CBD depot), thanked management for the
“It is very crucial that revenue assurance, theft and Motor Bikes as most of them had been carrying out their
vandalism be dealt with decisively. The modus operandi Revenue Assurance duties on foot, saying the bikes were a
No Payment - No Power should be adopted. tremendous motivation and a huge boost to employee morale.
Disconnections should be instituted when clients fail to
pay for their consumption of electricity.” Dr Muswere said He said that the training, which came at a significant cost
that before the end of next year 2022, smart meters demonstrated that the Region had employee safety and welfare
should be deployed throughout the country and Loss at heart and urged his colleagues to put the bikes to good use*
Control should be vigilant and steadfast as we fight theft
and vandalism.

He said that energy theft is an enemy of Vision 2030 and
as citizens, we have a collective responsibility to
apprehend these criminals that are reversing the gains of
developments in the country.

Dr Muswere said that as we walk towards Vision 2030, the
$15Billion bill must be extinguished as we deal decisively
with defaulters, whether they be a mining house,
business, domestic consumer or farmer.

In a speech read on his behalf by Commissioner Taonei
Nyazema, the Commissioner General of Police Mr Godwin
Matanga said that the name given to the operation speaks
to the challenges of theft and revenue loss being faced by
the ZETDC.
“We all agree that this is having ripple effects on the
nation as a whole. Crime in general and theft as well as
vandalism of key infrastructure constitutes a potent
threat to national security. As such, if not properly
managed, it can submerge nations into anarchy and stifle
economic growth.

Insecurity discourages investment and makes it
unattractive to do business in a country prone to crime. I
have no doubt that Harare Region motor cycles you are
commissioning today will be put to good use and shall no
doubt embolden the fight against theft of Copper and
Aluminium cables as well as revenue loss,” said
Commissioner General Matanga.

He said that ZRP has a specialised section called the
Minerals, Flora and Fauna Unit, which deals with mineral
related crimes, saying “I am happy to mention that
through such specialisation, the ZRP, working with related
stakeholders has been able to detect and arrest several
organised criminal syndicates and individuals vandalising
public infrastructure and stealing Copper across the
country.”

time

Page 16

Outside The Box Marketing With Prosper Mutswiri

Be Distinct or Become Extinct!

So you make tomato sauce, so do 20 others. A serious hungry eater at a local restaurant is going to put whatever ketchup is
given to him on his chips. Remember “Better” boils down to three factors: more benefits, less risks, and/or less effort. All are
unique to the person deciding” (Sam Manfer).So why and how do we create distinction when other factors like supply come into
play?

To compete with other businesses, nowadays you need something that nobody else can copy. A one of its kind so to speak!
When all competitors are saying the same basic things each company appears to look the same.  Without the understanding of
who wants what, only the buyers will know why they decided on a certain competitor. To make a difference, you have got to
know all the deciding factors of the situation.

Distinction defines the brand and what the brand becomes is what was first believed about the brand by those who launched it.
A lot of factors come into play in creating uniqueness and one of these is passion. For example, when a brand manager through
the managing director of a particular tomato sauce company has a clear set of beliefs about their brand, the next phase is to be
passionate about it. Energy pushes everybody to see more and do more. Passion is your attitude towards the brand and
passion ignites ideas that are further developed to strengthen the business through the brand. Suddenly, the tomato sauce
guys don’t see red sauce as an additive to chips. They see and they actually believe that tomato sauce is as vital as food itself.
Suddenly, the sauce doesn’t have just a name but the name has a meaning. The meaning reinforces the values, experience,
consistency and pleasure that the chip eater enjoys. Furthermore, the distinction is reinforced because that sauce comes
packaged with a sub branded logo of the chips store so that there is already one more reason why the chips store even bought
the sauce in the first place.

Distinction is only created by people who believe more Tragically, some brands are like dinosaurs.They either
and see more in their products in the evolve into birds and fly, or they stay on the
interest of their customers. Passion
is the catalyst to fire up things ground and die. Distinction is more than mere
to happen. Your attitude towards logos, pretty pictures on adverts, ad–
your brand determines the altitude of
your brand/distinction. Innovation campaigns. Instead, it is the centre and
answers questions that customer responsibility of management to harness
develops as times changes. Continuous and grow from within. This article represents
research prevents market shortsightedness my own views on branding and challenges
and enables production with customer voice. us all to convert ourselves into genuine,
Creativity enables you to get your company exposed to
the next generation of buyers before they even become passionate brand people and
buyers. cease to be mere cubicle slaves.

It reminds us all that it takes passion and
strong desire to serve our customers
if we are to expect much from them.

Prosper Mutswiri is a Passionate Hybrid Marketer with over 17 combined year’s of
experience in Integrated & turnaround marketing. He is hands on Marketer and currently
the Marketing, Customer Experience & Digital expert with ZESA Holdings.

Page 17

ZETDC NATIONAL CONTACT CENTRE Mr Patient Mbarara was appointed Manager of the ZETDC
TO IMPROVE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE National Contact Centre and has landed the post from the ZETDC
Eastern Region where he was serving as Marketing Officer.
ZETDC has introduced a National Contact Centre that is
set to integrate the services that were being offered by Mr Patient Mbarara
Call Centres countrywide into a one-stop shop to address He has acquired more than 13 years’ experience in Sales
electricity-related queries as well as improve customer Management, Marketing Management, Corporate
experience. Communications, Public Relations and Customer Experience
Management, having worked for OK Zimbabwe (Internship), Regal
In an interview, Mr Patient Mbarara (ZETDC National Insurance Company and Mobile City Group before joining ZETDC.
Contact Centre Manager) said, “In line with our
efforts to continue improving service delivery to our He joined ZETDC in 2010 as a Marketing Officer for Eastern
valued clients countrywide, ZETDC has embarked on a Region, the position he held until he was re-assigned to head
project to establish a National Contact Centre at the the National Contact Centre at Head Office with effect from the
ZESA Headquarters (Ground Floor East Wing) that will beginning of September 2021.
improve and ease customer experience in accessing
products and services from the power utility”. His immediate task is the forging ahead with the newly
established Contact Centre, which is ear-marked to be a game
The project was completed within a period of four changer in ZETDC customer interactions and customer
months and is eliminating the inefficient experience and experience in general. Patient is a holder of a Bachelor of
frustration where client inquiries/queries were not being Commerce Honours in Marketing Management degree from the
effectively and timeously addressed due to lack of real Midlands State University (MSU) and a Master of Commerce in
time systems and channels in line with emerging global Marketing Strategy Degree (MSU). He also holds a Certificate in
trends. Digital Marketing from Digitally Smart UK (Partnering BUSE) and
a MAZ Marketing Practitioner Certification.
ZETDC was operating fault desks located at various
Districts and Client Service Centres throughout the As part of staying relevant in the customer experience global
country that were not adequately resourced to meet the space, he is studying towards a Diploma in Contact Centre
needs of clients using diverse channels of Management with the Chartered Institute of Customer
communication and with the advent of the contact Management. Patient is an avid farmer and
centre, such inefficiencies are being eradicated as the apiculturist*
new system is Omni-multi channel and it leverages on
latest technological innovations. CUSTOMER SERVICE WEEK CELEBRATED IN STYLE
• The ZETDC Marketing team interacted with Chitungwiza
Said Mr Mbarara: “The Contact Centre will have an (300 Customers), Warren Park (120), Glen view (200),
integration gateway of minimum capacity of 50 incoming Wynne St (250)
and outgoing lines and a minimum requirement of 1 200 There is a magic wand in reaching out to the customers at
Busy Hour Call Completions (BHCC) and an Integrated Social their doorsteps to get a feel of their pulse in so far as they
Media Management system that encompasses Facebook, rate and regard an organisation’s product and service
Twitter, WhatsApp, Web chat, Short Message Service (SMS) delivery.
and E-mail, among others. Organisations are now thriving in an environment that is fraught
with competition and where negative treatment is amplified by
“The Contact Centre will enable clients to communicate technological innovations to an extent that customers can be lost
with the organization using their preferred communication within a blink of an eye, if experiences in dealing with a service
pathways and client call recording, monitoring and provider rubs them the wrong way.
response evaluation. It would also enable effective
management of ZETDC social media platforms, encourage
agents to be extra courteous with clients and enhance the
integration of multiple channels of communication”.

The global contact centre would also enhance the
alignment of the organization to its vision and business
strategy and once operationalized, client call prioritization
by value and by status would be made possible.

The general benefits of the ZETDC global contact centre
is that it would result in bolstering the corporate
communication and brand image as well as increasing
revenue through upsell opportunities.

Page 18

The outreach programmes were also aimed at rewarding
members of staff who are a shining beacon in serving
customers, boost morale, motivation, teamwork as well as
raise company-wide awareness of the importance of
great customer service.

ZETDC Marketing gurus go out in full force to meet the customers. Customer interactive session at
ZETDC Wynne Street
On the extreme right is Engineer Ralph Katsande (Acting Commercial ZETDC joined the rest of the world in celebrating the
Director) leading the “troupes” at the Glen View Client Service Centre importance of Customer Service as a key ingredient in
(Depot) promoting organizational growth and it also rendered an
opportunity to boost the visibility of the ZETDC brand.
The 2021 edition of the Customer Service Week was so eventful
as ZETDC, across all rank and file descended in various suburbs The face to face interactions with customers and promotion
throughout the country to commemorate the event by meeting of ZETDC products and services went a long way to create
consumers at their respective backyards and addressed brand loyalty and bonding with customers.
inquiries and queries relating to electricity and energy.
The Customer Services Week is celebrated during the first week Customer Feedback
of October each year.
The eventful outreach programmes provided an ample
ZETDC joined the rest of the world and commemorated the week opportunity for ZETDC to get a microscopic scrutiny of its
by exhibiting at the Chitungwiza District Offices, Warren Park- products and services as customers ticked boxes as well as
Banking Hall, Glenview Depot and Wynne Street Banking Hall, raised a flag on areas that they felt an improvement needed
with other regions also celebrating the event in diverse ways. to be done.
The activities encompassed recognition and appreciation of
ZETDC’s valued customers for the business and support • Customers were concerned that ZETDC banking halls close
(partnership) that they render to the power utility, reinforcing during lunch hour, the time slot that most customers would
the organization’s commitment to excellent customer service not be at work and need to transact before they resume work
as well as appreciation of staff for the role that they play in at 1400hrs at their respective organisations.
delivering great customer experience.
• They also requested that notices on unplanned shutdowns
be done effectively.

• Enhance public media campaigns on Hotline telephone
numbers to report fraud and corrupt activities.

• There is need for a backup generator or a solar system to
enhance customer service. (Glen View Depot).

• Quick turnaround time in attending to faults.

• They need large frames showcasing products and services
mounted in banking halls.

Interactive session with customers outside the Warren Park Banking • Promotional flags at every Customer Service Centres’ entry
Hall points to enhance brand visibility.

Page 19

It was also noted that some of the notable impediment Trusted Source to stomach ulcers. Some doctors caution
to good customer care encompassed: against taking ibuprofen on an empty stomach for this
reason.
• I don’t care attitudes from some staff members
• Soliciting of bribes Do antacids help?
• Lack of a National Contact Centre
• Lack of a competitive Tariff Antacids work by neutralizing the stomach acid to relieve an
• Safety loopholes in the homes upset stomach. Taking antacids can reduce nausea,
• Theft and vandalism heartburn, and indigestion that drinking causes. This is a
• Transformer issues good option for people who tend to feel sick when
• Complicated process of buying electricity tokens hungover.

Recipe Does acetaminophen help?

Home remedies to ease a hangover Avoid medication that contains acetaminophen during a
hangover.
A hangover can leave someone with fatigue, nausea, The liver is the organ that breaks down acetaminophen, as
and muscle aches. People swear by certain hangover it does alcohol. The body is more susceptible to the toxic
cures, but do home remedies really help? effects of acetaminophen when a person drinks alcohol and
this can contribute to liver damage in severe cases.
Drinking alcohol can cause fatigue, nausea, brain fog,
and low mood the next day. People who are People may prefer to use anti-inflammatories, such as
experiencing a hangover feel these symptoms partly ibuprofen or naproxen, for pain relief instead.
because of the after-effects of drinking alcohol, including:
Drinking plenty of water
• dehydration
• electrolyte imbalances Rehydrating the body by drinking water may help to
• alcohol withdrawal improve the symptoms of a hangover.
• low blood sugar Alcohol is a diuretic, which means that it increases the
• stomach and intestine inflammation amount of urine a person passes. The resulting loss in
• sleep disturbances fluid can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
These factors contribute to a hangover.
Home hangover cures aim to treat these symptoms. There
is no specific food, drink, or magic pill to cure a hangover, Staying hydrated while drinking alcohol could help to
though certain remedies can ease the symptoms prevent or reduce a hangover. People can try drinking a
in some people. In this article, we look at the effectiveness glass of water between alcoholic dr
inks and just before bed.
of some common methods people use to try to cure
hangovers. Do rehydration powders help?

Medication Many people also use sports drinks that contain electrolytes
or rehydration powders to restore the balance of
While there is little direct research into how effective electrolytes in their bodies. There is no current research
over-the-counter (OTC) drugs are for people with a about whether or not this is an effective cure for a
hangover, certain medicines may help tackle the hangover.
symptoms, as discussed below.
Eating breakfast Encouraged
Do anti-inflammatories help?
Low blood sugar levels contribute to some hangover
Aspirin and other anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen symptoms. Eating in the morning helps regulate blood sugar
and naproxen are effective at relieving aches and pains. levels to relieve this discomfort partially.
These drugs can reduce the inflammation in the body that
alcohol causes to relieve headaches and muscle aches. When the body breaks down alcohol, lactic acid levels
People should use anti-inflammatories with caution when increase. This causes a drop in blood sugar levels, which can
hungover, as the medication can further irritate the contribute towards a hangover.
stomach lining. Chronic use of these drugs can lead Eating breakfast can help to restore blood sugar to a correct
level and may improve some symptoms of a hangover.

A person’s body also needs nutritious foods that include
protein, carbohydrates, healthful fats, and vitamins to repair
and recover.

Page 20

There is no current research to say that particular ZESA NTC Lounge…
foods, such as greasy or fried breakfasts, are more
effective than others. Many people believe that ZESA NTC INVESTS IN INNOVATION,
carbohydrates are particularly effective for “soaking
up” alcohol, though research has not looked RESEARCH
into this.
The ZESA National Training Centre has taken progressive steps
Antioxidants to ensure that its training programmes address the needs of
Industry and Commerce in line with the need to adapt to the
Eating food high in antioxidants may lessen the latest technological innovations, mentorship and research.
effects of alcohol. The alcohol a person drinks
causes oxidative stress, leading the body to produce Engineer Sam Makuvaza (Acting Training Manager)
free radicals. Antioxidants may help with this.
Research Trusted Source has linked oxidative stress to To achieve its objectives, ZESA NTC that is located in the serene
many health conditions including heart disease and suburb of Belvedere - about 20 Kilometres West of the Harare Central
cancers. Antioxidants are compounds that help mop up Business District - has taken the trajectory of improving the capacity
these free radicals. of its staff in an effort to equip the system and improve on
mentorship, innovation and research. To achieve that, the Centre has
People may benefit Trusted Source from eating recruited extra skills in the form of three training acumen.
foods high in antioxidants to reduce the negative
effects of drinking alcohol. ZESA NTC has recruited Engineer Nobleman Mushimbo (Process

Good dietary sources of antioxidants include: Control), Engineer Ngonidzashe Mushayi (Electrical Engineering) and

• berries Engineer Nyararai J Chipandamira (Mechanical Engineering).

• cherries The trio will facilitate relevant solutions to the organisation’s
• grapes
• pomegranates utilities, research and lecture on green or renewable energy as well
• carrots
• spinach as collaborate with other technical institutions for better service
• ginger
• dark chocolate delivery.
• nuts and seeds
• green and black teas ZESA NTC offers the following courses:

Drinking coffee or tea • Diploma in Power Plant Operations in conjunction with UZ

Coffee and other caffeinated drinks act as stimulants, • Certificate in Power Plant Operations
which may improve the feelings of fatigue that come • Linesman 1 & 2
with a hangover. • 33kv switching
• Cable jointing
Coffee, black tea, and green tea contain some • Welding
antioxidants that may reduce the adverse effects of • Supervisory and management development programmes
alcohol consumption. • Safety awareness and
• Plant Optimisation Exit strategy
However, drinks that contain caffeine are diuretics,
which may worsen the effects of dehydration in The thrust of the ZESA NTC is to increase the number of technical
the body. Caffeine does not alter a person’s blood
alcohol content, so it does not reduce the courses, pass rate, training effectiveness, capacity of staff in trouble
health risks relating to drinking alcohol
- MEDICAL NEWS TODAY NEWSLETTER* shooting as well as change of mindset in the execution of business.



Page 21

Future Plans

The future of the ZESA NTC looks bright as it aims to procure
state of the art training laboratories, visibility and relevance
of training centre.
The sirene centre for serious academic, business adventurisms
and pursuits aspires to develop the hub into a Centre of
Excellency amid plans to operationalize Bulawayo and Kariba
Training Centres as well as collaborate with Rwanda Energy
Group in training activities.
The man behind the vision is Engineer Samson Makuvaza
with a career spanning 41 years in the electricity power
generation sector. Mature and focused, he is waiting to
graduate with a PhD MOTI (Dr of Management of Technology
and Innovation) with the DaVinci Institute of Technology and
is a Master of MOTI.
As a devout Christian, he enjoys empowering others through
training*

Powertel Lounge…

POWERTEL VENTURES INTO RURAL DATA CONNECTIVITY

Powertel Communications has embarked on an exciting journey of enhancing data connectivity to
.Zimbabwe’s marginalized rural populace through rolling out optic fibre network.
In an interview, Mr Prosper Mutswiri (Marketing Manager) said, “The project will see the organization connecting all the Zimbabwe
Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company’s (ZETDC) depots to the fibre optic network countrywide, with the benefits then
cascading to the local communities”.
He said that the objective is to create electricity end-loads in rural set ups through provision of information communication
technology solutions. Whilst Powertel has a mandate to empower local communities through connectivity, special attention is now
being given to rural areas as they present a huge untapped consumption potential, moreso with the advent of the Covid-19 global
pandemic. Covid-19 ‘force-marched’ massive digitalisation of economies and communities with the proliferation of e-learning and e-
working across the global divide as countries went on lockdown to reduce the spread of the scourge. Prior to this, the Government
of Zimbabwe had already prioritised digitisation of the national economy, and therefore ICTs, at the center of the delivery matrix for
Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030. The poor pass rate in 2020 examinations taken by rural schools alone is a telling sign of under-privileged
access to ICTs. Government is expediting the development of an inclusive digital economy by setting up digital hubs in rural and
marginalised communities to foster innovation and develop new business activities.

Page 22

It is not a lone road however as there are other critical stakeholders who are also part of this national connectivity drive.
As the African Proverb says “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” In this vein, engagements are
being done with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) as well as the Zimbabwe Electricity Distribution Company (ZETDC) in
order to achieve this objective. “Other critical stakeholders are the communities themselves and Powertel is in an aggressive
blitz to engage with the respective local communities to identify their specific needs. Targeted communities include, amongst
others schools, hospitals, growth points, Mining and Agricultural communities, Rural District Councils, Non-Governmental
organisations and Government bodies in each area,” said Mr Mutswiri. Powertel is Zimbabwe’s licensed converged
telecommunications operator. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of ZESA Holdings mandated with providing total ICT solutions for
the Power Utility and the Zimbabwean market. Powertel is licensed with a Class A Internet Access Provider license, providing
the following services to the nation:- Backbone capacity( carrier service to local operators and big customers, Virtual private
network services and Remote access connectivity), Internet service provision( wholesale, business), Seamless branch to
branch connectivity, Aggregation services (Powerplus prepaid electricity), Internet of things (Fleet Management Solutions,
Transformer Monitoring & other Asset Monitoring) and Professional services*

Page 23

ZESA Enterprises Lounge…

ZENT TRANSPORT RECOVERS CRANE FROM ZAMBEZI VALLEY

ZESA Enterprises Transport and Logistics Division was
engaged for its rigging expertise and further mobilised
mechanical and civil engineering personnel, from the
Projects Division, to provide technical assistance in this
complex exercise. Through the combined efforts of the two
Divisions, the crane was retrieved within 4 days at a cost
less than half the prices quoted on the Open
tender. The successful execution of this Project from
internal resources is testimony of the rich pool of skills
within the Group that if fully resourced can handle all facets
of the Group’s technical requirements.
Congratulations TEAM ZENT for a job well done !!!!

Work in Progress
ZESA Enterprises Transport & Logistics team expertly
managed to retrieve a 35 Tonne crane from the Zambezi
Valley after an accident. The accident happened after the
driver failed to negotiate a curve near the new Kariba
Substation thereby ploughing through gravel and rocks to
land a few metres from the river. The driver’s cab had to be
crushed in order to save him as he was trapped inside.

Through Open tender ZPC sought recovery services for the
crane and were
quoted exorbitant figures which were close to the cost of
procuring a new unit.
Cognisant of the specialised skills resident within the ZESA
Group of Companies, ZPC contracted ZENT to assess the
scope of work and develop methodology for the recovery of
the crane.

Men at Work

Part of the damaged crane

Page 24

Imparting Defensive Skills…

Caption Story…The ZESA Group conducted a Defensive Driving Course for employees. The course ran from September 28 to 1st October,
2021 and thirty- six employees with valid driver’s licenses from within the ZESA Group attended. The purpose of the course was to train
employees to drive to save lives, time, money as well as preserve company assets, in spite of the conditions around them and the actions of
others. Some of the benefits of the defensive driving training to the Group are assurance of a smooth operating fleet of vehicles, reduced
vehicle maintenance costs, vehicle insurance premiums and reduced driving risks through increased driving skills. Most importantly, there
would be increased staff protection through a reduction in accidents.
The course was an overall success, producing a 100% pass rate and attendees were generally enthusiastic.
“I enjoyed the course as it was so mentally and physically enriching,” said Mr. Crescent Murape, of ZETDC Transmission. “Personally, I did
four DDC courses but this one was too deep and educative” – Ishmael Masayie, ZETDC Transmission West.
The DDC “premiered” at the ZESA National Training Centre and was officially opened by Engineer Sam Makuvaza (Acting Training and
Development Manager) and the course was conducted by Mr John Chiparo (Acting Senior Transport Controller – ZETDC), a vital cog in the
preservation of ZESA assets*

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COVID -19 SURVIVOR SANDE GRATEFUL TO ZESA

Mr Sande Lukungwe, a Lines Inspector at Beatrice Customer Service Centre (CSC) has showered praises to ZESA Holdings for
the valued financial and material support that he received when he was diagnosed positive to the COVID-19 pandemic in
February 2020.

Mr Sande Lukungwe
Mr Lukungwe (59) said that when the health and life-threatening tragedy befell him, ZESA reacted swiftly by footing his medical
bills amounting to almost $ 3Million at health institutions that were handling him.
“My family could not believe that my bills of that high magnitude were taken care of by ZESA and here I am, continuing with my life
as if I never contracted the disease in the first place. The love and care that I received bears testimony to the fact that the power
utility is an employer of choice…,” said Mr Lukungwe.
Being one of the first and early victims of the pandemic, he became a trend-setter in terms of expenditure levels that one forks
out when the diseases becomes an unwelcome visitor to an unsuspecting victim.
Mr Lukungwe who joined ZESA on 14th September 1981 went through an excruciatingly painful period of twenty-six days from the
first day of February 2020, with the effects of COVID-19 hounding him that he cheated death by a whisker.
He was also grateful that being one of the first victims of the pandemic, the organisation bought a ventilator for more than
USD1000.00 and it became an instant asset that ensured his survival and that of other victims as well in the ZESA Group of
companies.
COVID-19 took him a further six months before he came back to full stability.
“I must emphasize that COVID-19 is a challenge and access to oxygen ensures that one survives. There is nothing that can
effectively treat a victim than oxygen. When one is attacked by the pandemic, it does not quickly disappear and lungs take time to
stabilise,’ said Mr Lukungwe. When he fell sick, he had five nurses taking turns to attend to him. He was not allowed to leave his bed
and neither did he have the energy to do so. He said that the disease needs a lot of courage. When he was diagnosed as positive, he
used to vomit a lot and had no strength to stand on his own. Mr Lukungwe was quickly transferred to Mahusekwa clinic and had to
be further transferred to Harare as there was no oxygen to help him stabilise.
He said that the other remedy that assisted him a lot to conquer the disease
was that he ate a lot of fruits.
Mr Lukungwe, who participated in the rural electrification project from its inception served in various capacities ranging from
general hand, Charge Hand, Linesman and Lines Inspector in Marondera, Bromley, Norton and Mutoko, among other centres.
He attained a Class 3 qualification in Trade Testing and as he prepares for his life into retirement, he has managed to electrify his
place of residence and is into Gold Mining.

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Mr Lukungwe, married with six children - two boys and four girls - was in a jovial mood and is looking forward to clocking 60 years
of age on 4th November 2022 as he was given a new lease of life by ZESA Holdings coupled with the grace of God*

Be Alert, Stay Safe

Mask Up & Sanitize

ZESA HOLDINGS (PVT) LTD

MEMORIAL OF DEPARTED ZESA EMPLOYEES

The Executive Chairman Dr Sydney Zikuzo Gata, Board, Management and Staff of ZESA Holdings and its Subsidiary Companies
the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC), Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC), ZESA Enterprises
and Powertel Communications would like to pay tribute and remember ZESA employees that sadly lost their lives due to various
causes and circumstances, especially COVID-19 during the year 2021.

Their painful deaths left a void that is difficult to fill and the power utility shall forever have fond memories and appreciation of

their valued contributions to ZESA.


May Their Dear Souls continue to rest in eternal peace.

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