Open Access Article

Off-Grid Dreams: How Solar Energy Is Lighting Up The Forgotten Villages of Zimbabwe

Victor Madziyauswa (1)
1. Department of Development Studies, Fort Hare University, South Africa
https://doi.org/10.36923/SQ.v1i2.251

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Issue
Vol. 1 No. 1 (2024)
Submitted
December 23, 2024
Accepted
January 22, 2025
Published
February 18, 2025
Keywords:
    Solar energy, off-grid solutions, Zimbabwe, Rural Development, SDG 7, Sustainable Energy, Community Empowerment
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Abstract

This study aims to identify how solar adoption can alleviate energy poverty and sustain development in rural Zimbabwe, Chivi District. The research was qualitative, consisting of semi-structured interviews with locals, government officials and stakeholders, and secondary data collection. These results indicate large socioeconomic upsides, such as increased study time with solar lighting, better storage and healthcare provision through solar-powered refrigeration, and greater agricultural yields through solar irrigation. Despite these advantages, major impediments like the high initial cost of installing solar systems and the lack of technical support in-country hinder widespread deployment. Those outcomes require specific interventions, such as subsidies, capacity building to raise technical knowledge, and new forms of financing to improve affordability. Addressing these challenges allows governments, NGOs and the private sector to scale solar technologies for energy equity, economic empowerment and environmental sustainability, as defined by SDGs 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action).

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Authors

Victor Madziyauswa
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6122-6666
victormadziyauswa@gmail.com (Primary Contact)
Author Biography

Victor Madziyauswa

Victor Madziyauswa is an aspirant scholar and researcher in sustainable development and renewable energy, particularly in rural-scale solar energy. He has a robust academic track record and experience in deploying renewable energy schemes that reduce energy poverty and socio-economic growth. Victor’s work is in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action), which focus on how renewable energy has the potential to improve people’s lives and promote sustainability. Victor has been actively engaged in research and development projects that help the line between academia and industry. He has recently been working in Chivi District in Zimbabwe where he shows his passion for developing and operating off-grid solar projects that empower marginalised communities and address the key issues of education, health, and agriculture. Viktor, through a partnership with local and international organizations, seeks to develop innovative, inclusive and sustainable solutions for the energy challenges in the world.

Madziyauswa, V. (2025). Off-Grid Dreams: How Solar Energy Is Lighting Up The Forgotten Villages of Zimbabwe. Sustainability Quest, 1(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.36923/SQ.v1i2.251
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How to Cite

Madziyauswa, V. (2025). Off-Grid Dreams: How Solar Energy Is Lighting Up The Forgotten Villages of Zimbabwe. Sustainability Quest, 1(1), 1-14. https://doi.org/10.36923/SQ.v1i2.251

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