Zim, Mozambique Sign Energy Deal

Zim Now Writer

Zimbabwe and Mozambique have entered into a transformative energy agreement aimed at boosting fuel imports and deepening cooperation across the energy value chain.

Signed yesterday in Maputo by Zimbabwe’s Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo and Mozambique’s Minister of Mineral Resources and Energy Estêvo Pale, the Memorandum of Understanding is expected to raise Zimbabwe’s annual fuel imports from 3 billion to 5 billion litres via the Mozambique pipeline.

“This is a historic moment for both countries,” said Minister Moyo. “Our technical teams have worked tirelessly to ensure this partnership explores every possible area of energy collaboration.

This MoU is not just a piece of paper — it is a pathway to real, transformative development.”

The agreement outlines cooperation in petroleum trade, infrastructure utilisation, renewable energy, natural gas investments, as well as electricity generation, transmission and trading.

Mozambique’s Minister Pale emphasised the broader significance of the partnership: “This is not just about power generation. It is about empowering our people, strengthening our economies, and creating a sustainable energy future together.”

In 2023, Zimbabwe imported US$69.2 million worth of electricity from Mozambique, making it the country’s second-largest supplier after South Africa. Overall, Zimbabwe’s imports from Mozambique totaled US$403.95 million last year, with US$74.95 million spent on electrical energy alone.

The main electricity suppliers in Mozambique are Electricidade de Moçambique and Hidroeléctrica de Cabora Bassa.

The energy pact was signed during the Mozambique Mining and Energy Conference and Exhibition, a private sector-sponsored event attended by regional representatives, including delegates from Malawi.

The conference, officially opened by Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, explored policies and strategies to manage emerging geopolitical and energy sector challenges.