The Government of Zimbabwe and the United Nations system have taken a decisive step in shaping the country’s development trajectory for the next five years, following a full‑day Strategic Prioritization Workshop that validated the 2027–2031 Zimbabwe UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (ZUNSDCF) strategic priorities, outcome statements and indicative outputs.Held on 19 March at the Golden Conifer in Harare, the workshop brought together more than 130 delegates from across the national development ecosystem, culminating in broad-based agreement in five proposed strategic priorities and their associated outcomes and outputs. Participants represented the Office of the President and Cabinet (OPC); Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies; UN agencies; development partners; the diplomatic corps accredited to Zimbabwe; youth and women’s groups; private sector organizations including the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) and the Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI); the Federation of Zimbabwe Trade Unions; organizations of persons with disabilities; civil society and non-governmental organizations; think tanks such as the Zimbabwe Economic Society, and media bodies such as the Zimbabwe National Editors Forum and the Zimbabwe Union of Journalists.Co‑chaired by the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. Martin Rushwaya (represented by Deputy Chief Secretary Mr. Z. Churu), and the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr. Edward Kallon, and jointly facilitated by Mrs. Miranda Tabifor, UNFPA Representative and Chair of the UN Programme Management Team, together with Mr. Anderson Chiraya, Chief Director in the Office of the President and Cabinet, the workshop concluded with delegates validating the proposed strategic priorities of the 2027–2031 UNSDCF, which were substantially enriched and sharpened through extensive group work and plenary discussions.A Government–UN Compact for TransformationIn a keynote address setting the tone for the workshop, the Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. Martin Rushwaya, underscored Government’s expectation that the next Zimbabwe UN Cooperation Framework be firmly aligned with Zimbabwe’s development agenda—including Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2—as well as international commitments such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063.“The Cooperation Framework is not a parallel plan,” the Chief Secretary emphasized. “It is a vehicle to accelerate the implementation of our national priorities with the support, expertise and convening power of the United Nations and its partners. Today’s exercise was about ensuring that every strategic priority reflects our realities, our aspirations, and our commitment to leave no one behind.”Reaffirming Government’s commitment to inclusivity, he highlighted the “whole‑of‑government, whole‑of‑society” approach reflected in the diversity of stakeholders present. “We deliberately brought everyone to the table—Government, private sector, labour, youth, women, persons with disabilities, civil society, development partners and the media—because sustainable development is a shared responsibility,” the Chief Secretary noted. The validation of these five strategic priorities sends a strong signal that Zimbabwe is united around a coherent and ambitious development compact with the UN.UN System Commits to Coherent, Integrated SupportThe UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mr. Edward Kallon explained the 2027–2031 ZUNSDCF as the central instrument for the UN system’s collective support to Zimbabwe, emphasizing coherence, accountability and measurable impact.Mr. Kallon underlined that the next Cooperation Framework provides an opportunity to drive a systemic shift across economic, social, governance, gender and environmental spheres. “We are being invited to do more than produce another planning document,” he noted. “We are being invited to imagine—and to help build—a fundamentally transformed system… a Zimbabwe which, by 2031 and beyond, has broken free from its structural challenges and is steadily consolidating reinforcing cycles of resilience, inclusion and shared prosperity.”Mr. Kallon clarified the rationale for the 2027–2031 cycle, which extends one year beyond NDS 2, Vision 2030 and the SDGs. The extra year, he explained, is “a bridge, not a divergence” that will:ensure smooth transition into the post‑2030 national development strategybetter align UN agency programming with national planning cycles, andavoid stop‑gap measures that slow implementation on the ground.“This Cooperation Framework is the UN’s single, integrated response to Zimbabwe’s development agenda,” Mr. Kallon noted. “The five strategic priorities we validated today emerge from a rigorous analytical process, national consultations, and now, this intensive multi-stakeholder workshop. They respond to the country’s Human Development needs, economic transformation ambitions, governance and resilience priorities, and the imperative of inclusion.Reflecting on the day’s outcomes, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator said, “What stands out is the level of ownership. The inputs we received—from senior government officials, think tanks, youth leaders, women’s groups, civil society, labour and the private sector—have significantly strengthened the proposed outcomes and outputs. The validated priorities now provide a robust foundation for a results-focused Cooperation Framework that we will design, launch and implement together, and for which we will be jointly accountable.”Mr. Kallon also stressed that the Cooperation Framework is both a development and a prevention strategic tool, “By integrating humanitarian, development and peace nexus, the ZUNSDCF will help Zimbabwe manage risks through embedded crisis modifiers and anticipatory action plans, building resilience and protect hard-won gains, particularly for the most vulnerable.”Five Strategic Priorities Under the SpotlightBuilding on the Country Analysis, the evaluation of the current Cooperation Framework (2022–2026) and internal UN reflections, UNICEF Representative Ms. Etona Ekole led interactive discussions and presented five preliminary Strategic Priorities, draft outcome statements and outputs as a basis for working group and plenary reflection. While the technical formulations will be finalized in the coming weeks, the validated priorities broadly focus on:Inclusive Economic Growth, Structural Transformation, Decent Work and Financing for Development – Supporting macroeconomic stability, inclusive growth, expanded fiscal space, and green, digital and gender‑responsive economic opportunities, with a focus on livelihoods, decent work and innovative financing.Inclusive Climate Resilience, Renewable Energy, Food Security and Sustainable Natural Resource Management – Ensuring that all people, especially those at risk of being left behind, are food and nutrition secure, climate‑resilient, benefit from renewable energy and sustainable ecosystems, and are better equipped to prevent and respond to disasters.Human Capital Development (Health and Nutrition, Education and Skilling) and Social Protection– Strengthening health, education, skills and social protection systems so they deliver equitable, quality, inclusive and shock‑responsive services that build wellbeing and resilience across the life course.Inclusive Governance, Human Rights, Rule of Law and Social Cohesion – Enhancing effective, accountable, data‑driven and devolved governance systems that uphold human rights, expand civic participation and foster social cohesion and peace.Gender Equality, Women’s Empowerment and Social Inclusion – Ensuring women, men, girls, boys and all those at risk of being left behind are free from violence, meaningfully engaged in development processes and enjoy equal rights and opportunities across economic, political and social spheres.In breakout groups, participants examined whether each priority adequately reflected UN comparative advantage to support in addressing Zimbabwe’s development challenges and opportunities; captured cross-cutting issues such as gender equality, youth empowerment, disability inclusion and environmental sustainability; and was supported by clear, measurable outcomes and outputs.By the end of the plenary session, there was consensus that the five strategic priorities were valid and relevant, with refinements recommended to better integrate private sector competitiveness, social protection, quality basic services (health, education, WASH), youth empowerment, and devolution approaches to development and resilience.Private Sector Calls for Enabling Environment and Shared ValueThe Principal Economist from ZNCC, Mr. Jephias Makiwa, welcomed the explicit recognition of the private sector as a key partner in delivering the Cooperation Framework.“For Zimbabwe to achieve sustained and inclusive growth, the private sector must be at the heart of implementation,” Mr. Makiwa stressed. “The second strategic priority on sustainable and inclusive economic transformation is critical. We have emphasized the importance of an enabling policy and regulatory environment, improved access to finance for micro, small and medium enterprises, value addition and beneficiation, and support for value chains that create decent jobs, especially for young people and women.”Mr. Makiwa called for a focus on catalytic priorities such as macroeconomic stability and financial sector deepening, industrialization and value chains, energy and logistics infrastructure, employment creation and skills alignment, and stronger governance.Noting that the private sector stands ready to contribute meaningfully to this agenda,” Mr. Makiwa said, “what is required is a coordinated and deliberate approach that unlocks investment, enhances productivity, and builds confidence in the economy.” Mr. Makiwa highlighted the role of the UNSDCF in mobilizing strategic investments and technical support, “We see this Framework as an opportunity to crowd in both domestic and international investment, to support industrialization, digitalization, and competitiveness. What has reassured the business community today is the recognition that economic transformation must go hand in hand with investment in social sector including social protection, climate resilience and skills development. That is how we create shared value and reduce poverty sustainably.”Population Dynamics, Gender and Rights at the CentreAs Chair of the UN Programme Management Team (PMT), the UNFPA Representative Mrs. Miranda Tabifor underlined the centrality of population dynamics, sexual and reproductive health and rights, and gender equality within the Cooperation Framework.“Demography matters for development,” the UNFPA Representative explained. “Zimbabwe’s youthful population is a tremendous asset, but only if we invest in their health, education and empowerment. Through this Cooperation Framework, the UN and Government are committing to prioritize quality services in sexual and reproductive health, prevent and respond to gender-based violence, and promote bodily autonomy and rights for all, including adolescents.”Reflecting on the workshop discussions, Mrs. Tabifor added: “Across the five strategic priorities, we have worked to ensure that gender equality, youth empowerment and rights-based approaches are not treated as add-ons, but as integral elements. The feedback from women’s groups, youth representatives and organizations of persons with disabilities has been especially important in strengthening the outcomes and outputs related to inclusion and social protection.”As PMT Chair, the UNFPA Representative also spoke to coordination, “The PMT will continue to facilitate and support the UN Country Team that the UN delivers as one, avoiding fragmentation and duplication. The validated priorities give us a clear, coherent framework within which to plan joint programmes, leverage comparative advantages, and track collective results.”Industrialization, Value Addition and Green GrowthThe workshop drew on the updated UN Country Analysis, presented on behalf of the UN Team of Policy Advisors by UNIDO Representative Mr. Innocent Madziva, outlined a picture of “progress amid systemic challenges.”  The analysis proposes an optimistic path dubbed “The Green and Digital Leap” – a shift from business as usual to a new paradigm built on climate‑smart agriculture and renewable energy, formalization and jobs; strengthened gender equality and inclusive governance; debt resolution and innovative financing, and enhanced human capital and social protection.Mr. Madziva said, “The country analysis exercise allowed us to bring rigorous analysis into the political dialogue. Today’s validation confirms that the five strategic priorities are not only technically sound, but also nationally owned and politically supported.”Children and Young People as Drivers of TransformationThe UNICEF Representative Ms. Etona Ekole underscored that the success of the 2027–2031 ZUNSDCF will also be measured by improvements in advancing neonatal care, the lives of children and young people. “Children and adolescents must be at the heart of this Cooperation Framework,” the UNICEF Representative stated. “That means ensuring every child has access to quality education, health, nutrition, water and sanitation, protection from violence, and opportunities to thrive in a rapidly changing world.”Leading the group and plenary discussions,  welcomed the meaningful engagement of youth delegates, “Young people spoke powerfully about employment, skills, digital inclusion and participation in decision-making. Their inputs have helped shape outcomes and outputs across the Framework, ensuring that youth perspectives inform not only social, but also economic and governance priorities.”Inclusion, Partnerships and AccountabilityBeyond sectoral themes, a recurring focus throughout the workshop was the imperative to “leave no one behind”—a core principle of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Organizations of persons with disabilities, labour unions, women’s groups and civil society actors emphasized the need for explicit commitments to reach those furthest behind first.Participants called for:Stronger, disaggregated data and evidence to identify and track inequalities.Deliberate measures to include marginalized communities in programme design and implementation.Labour rights and social protection for workers in both formal and informal sectors.Accessible infrastructure and services for persons with disabilities.Community-level engagement and localization of interventions.The media’s presence—through editors, journalists and media associations—was also highlighted as a cornerstone of transparency and public accountability in implementing the Cooperation Framework.From Validation to Finalization and ImplementationIn closing the workshop, the co-chairs and co-facilitators of the workshop as well as rapporteurs of the five strategic priorities summarized the key refinements proposed by the thematic groups and plenary, including clarifications to outcome statements, strengthening cross-cutting commitments, and better articulation of indicators and partnerships.The Permanent Secretary for National Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning at the Office of the President and Cabinet Ms. Madambi welcomed the consensus achieved and said, “Today we have collectively confirmed that these five strategic priorities and their proposed outcome statements and outputs will define the Cooperation Framework. We have enriched them with practical input from a diverse range of stakeholders. The next step is to translate this consensus into a finalized Cooperation Framework document that will guide our work with the UN from 2027 to 2031.”UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mr. Edward Kallon echoed this forward-looking focus and said, “The validation we achieved today is not the end of the process; it is the bridge for a series of engagement that will lead to the development of the Cooperation Framework document and its subsequent implementation.” He said that over the coming weeks and months, we will work closely with Government and partners to finalize the results framework, define clear indicators and baselines, targets and align resources through muti-year financing framework and working towards establishing local financing compact. “Implementation will require sustained political commitment, robust partnerships, and continuous dialogue with citizens,” underlined Mr. Kallon. A Shared Roadmap for the Next Five YearsAs delegates departed the workshop, there was a clear sense that the 2027–2031 Zimbabwe UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework is emerging as a shared roadmap—anchored in national priorities, informed by evidence, and strengthened by broad-based participation.For Government, the UN, international development partners, the private sector, civil society, labour, youth, women and persons with disabilities, the validated strategic priorities now provide a common platform to tackle development challenges, seize new opportunities, and build a more inclusive, resilient and prosperous Zimbabwe. Mr. Kallon issued three appeals:To Government – to continue to lead boldly with a clear, evidence‑based and inclusive national development agenda under NDS 2 and beyond, providing the policy coherence necessary for effective alignment of partner support.To development partners and the private sector – to see the Zimbabwe UN Cooperation Framework “not just as a UN document, but as a shared platform for collaboration,” aligning financing, technical support and investments behind the agreed priorities.To the UN system – to embody UN 2.0 by being data‑driven, digitally enabled, future‑smart and results oriented, working more jointly and embracing innovation, foresight and co‑creation.“We will not be able to do everything,” Mr. Kallon said, “but we can choose strategically prioritizing interventions that change the rules of the game, that build institutions and capacities, and that empower people as agents of transformation.” The task ahead is ambitious, but the message from the workshop was clear that with coordinated effort and genuine partnership, the 2027–2031 Zimbabwe UN Cooperation Framework can be a powerful instrument to accelerate progress towards the national Vision to become upper middle-income society by 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals—ensuring that no one is left behind.

At Zimbabwe’s New Parliament House on Friday, the country signalled its intent to step decisively into the heart of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. With the formal launch of the Zimbabwe National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2030, His Excellency Dr. Emmerson D. Mnangagwa, President of the Republic of Zimbabwe framed AI not as a distant, abstract technology, but as a strategic lever for national development, economic transformation and social progress. Side by side with the United Nations, represented by the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mr. Edward Kallon, Zimbabwe positioned itself as not just a consumer of AI technologies, but an emerging architect of how they will be used on the African continent.“This strategy,” President Mnangagwa declared, “marks a new chapter in our country’s development trajectory,” one he said must be “home-grown, inclusive and anchored in our national values, interests and aspirations.”AI as a development tool, not a luxuryFrom the outset, the President’s message underlined that artificial intelligence is no longer optional for countries seeking to modernize. “Artificial Intelligence is central to the ongoing global technological transformation,” he said. “For Zimbabwe, it is critical to our modernization, industrialization and sustainable socio-economic growth.”The Head of State described AI as a strategic catalyst – a cross-cutting tool that can raise productivity, improve public services, and help the country leapfrog stages of development. In his view, AI must become embedded in the national development agenda, complementing existing plans such as Vision 2030 and the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan.Mr. Kallon echoed that view, tying Zimbabwe’s strategy to global developments. Just recently, the UN General Assembly in New York had adopted a landmark resolution on “Seizing the opportunities of safe, secure and trustworthy artificial intelligence systems for sustainable development.” “Its message is clear,” Mr. Kallon said. “AI must be inclusive, not exclusionary; it must accelerate development, not deepen divides; and it must be safe, secure and trustworthy, or it will not be sustainable. Zimbabwe’s AI strategy is an opportunity to put that vision into practice—here, now, for the benefit of all.”At the core of Zimbabwe’s new strategy lie  interlinked pillars designed to move the country from aspiration to implementation. The pillars include, targeting people – the skills, knowledge and creativity needed to build and govern AI systems. President Mnangagwa called for a fundamental reorientation of the education system “from primary to tertiary level” towards STEM, coding and data literacy. AI Centres of Excellence will be established, with funding for research and development, and deliberate efforts to make AI careers attractive for young Zimbabweans. Mr. Kallon underscored why this is urgent. “AI’s potential will only be realized if Zimbabwe invests in STEM and digital skills, and supports lifelong learning and reskilling as jobs evolve,” he said, adding that the UN system would support this skills transition, with a focus on ensuring no one and no place is left behind.The message to the country’s youth was direct. The President urged young “techno-preneurs” to “push creative boundaries and develop solutions that build Zimbabwe,” linking their efforts to his oft-repeated mantra that “nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatirwa nevene vayo” – a nation is built, governed and prayed for by its own people. The second pillar is about building the digital backbone that makes AI possible. Zimbabwe plans to:Operationalize the Data Protection Act, creating a secure environment for data use.Promote open data and secure data marketplaces.Invest in digital infrastructure and cloud computing.Fully utilize the High Performance Computing Centre to support AI research and applications.Mr. Kallon highlighted the importance of this foundation, including reliable, sustainable energy. “AI’s transformative power depends on robust infrastructure and reliable, sustainable energy,” he said. “Here, too, the UN is a partner—drawing on global experience, including through the UN Joint SDG Fund, to pilot catalytic renewable energy investments that can power Zimbabwe’s digital ambitions sustainably.”The third pillar focuses on getting AI out of the lab and into everyday life. The President announced that government will actively drive AI adoption across all sectors, and will incentivize businesses that use AI to boost efficiency and productivity. Flagship AI projects are planned in:Precision agriculture – from crop and climate analytics to early warning systems.Predictive healthcare – using data to anticipate disease outbreaks and optimise resources.Smart mining – for safer operations, accurate exploration and efficient energy and water use.Public service delivery – reducing queues, delays and leakages, improving transparency.Anti-corruption – leveraging data analytics to detect irregularities and strengthen accountability.The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator painted a vivid picture of what this could mean on the ground. “In agriculture,” he said, “AI-driven climate and crop analytics can guide farmers on when and what to plant, and how to use scarce water and inputs more efficiently.” Coupled with improved early warning systems, such tools can help shield livelihoods and improve food security.In mining, he noted, AI can reduce environmental damage and improve traceability in mineral supply chains. In manufacturing, AI-enabled process optimization can sharpen Zimbabwe’s competitiveness in regional and global value chains. In services, particularly financial services, AI can expand access to credit, savings and insurance—“provided that AI models are designed and governed to avoid bias, discrimination and predatory practices.”In government, he added, AI can strengthen the delivery of health, education, social protection and tax administration “by improving targeting, reducing leakages and supporting evidence-based policy.”The fourth pillar addresses the risks of AI head-on. President Mnangagwa stressed that Zimbabwe’s AI journey must be “human-centric, transparent, fair, and free from bias,” protecting national interests and the dignity of all Zimbabweans. He called for a robust legal and ethical framework to govern AI development and deployment.Mr. Kallon spelt out what that entails, “clear legal and regulatory frameworks for data protection, algorithmic accountability and AI safety; impact assessments for high-risk systems; accessible redress mechanisms; and independent oversight capacities in government, civil society, academia and professional bodies.”He stressed the need to confront bias and exclusion “by requiring diverse, high-quality datasets, gender-responsive and inclusive design, and meaningful participation of affected communities.”The messages of the President and the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator converged on a central point, trust. Without public trust, the AI project cannot succeed.Building on a decade of digital progressPresident Mnangagwa rooted the AI strategy in a longer trajectory of investment in ICT under the Second Republic. Expansion of connectivity and internet access, modernization of postal and courier services, and integration into e-commerce platforms have created “a strong base and user pool for AI solutions.”Mr. Kallon described the new strategy as the latest “foundational brick” laid on earlier work supported by the UN, including:The 2025 AI Readiness Assessment Methodology report, anchored in the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI.The National ICT Strategy and Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan.Development of a national media and information literacy policy and community-based early warning systems using the Internet of Things.“These are the foundational bricks upon which today’s national AI strategy is built,” he said. “Anchored on interrelated pillars and grounded in a home-grown vision of AI, Zimbabwe has earned its place among the community of nations navigating the fourth industrial revolution.”From launch to implementationHonourable Tatenda A. Mavetera, Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services said, "History shows that each generation adapts uniquely to technological changes. As Zimbabwe aims for Vision 2030, we are ready to engage with the global economy. The National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026-2030 highlights our commitment to the Fourth Industrial Revolution and our progress toward a unified digital vision for Zimbabwe. The Honourable Minister added, "We stand at the dawn of a new era, a time of unprecedented technological advancement that will reshape our world, where the 21st century is defined by the rapid pace of technological change and at its heart lies Artificial Intelligence. This is not merely a technological shift; it is a fundamental reordering of our society and economies."For all the ambition on display at New Parliament House, both the President and the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator converged on a sobering truth. The true test of the strategy will be on its implementation. Mr. Kallon listed what this will require, “strong continued leadership; sustained investment in infrastructure, skills and institutions; agile regulation; and continuous dialogue among government, private sector, academia, civil society and development partners.”President Mnangagwa framed the launch as both a commitment and a call to unity. With this strategy, he said, Zimbabwe “affirms its readiness to embrace AI responsibly and ambitiously,” and to harness it so that the country becomes “a smarter, more efficient and prosperous nation.”What happens next—in classrooms and coding bootcamps; in farms and factories; in Parliament and provincial councils; in start-up garages and government offices—will determine whether this moment becomes a turning point.  But on 13 March 2026, in a chamber built to house Zimbabwe’s democratic aspirations, the country made a clear statement, it intends not merely to watch the AI revolution unfold, but to shape it, according to its own priorities, values and vision for inclusive, sustainable development.

On an ordinary weekday morning, the courtyard at Mater Dei Hospital was anything but ordinary. Nurses in crisp uniforms, local community leaders, government officials, UN representatives, and Officials from the Old Mutual Group gathered under a cloudy and cool Bulawayo weather to mark a quiet revolution, the switch-on of a solar photovoltaic (PV) hybrid system that promises to keep the hospital’s lights – and life‑saving machines – on.For the doctors, nurses and patients who call this faith-based institution a lifeline, the new system is not about technology or engineering diagrams. It is about one simple thing, certainty. Certainty that an operation will not be halted mid-surgery. Certainty that a premature baby’s incubator will not suddenly go dark. Certainty that vaccines in the cold room will still be potent when they are needed.Honorable Yeukai Simbanegavi, Deputy Minister of Energy and Power Development, commenced the proceedings with pride. "Today, we witness the tangible results of our Renewable Energy Fund, validating that our collaborative efforts indeed bear fruit," she said. Highlighting the importance of energy access, she said, "Reliable power is a foundation of modern economies and crucial for improving quality of life in our communities." Appreciating the strong partnership with the UN and Old Mutual Group, Honourable Simbanegavi advocated for increased innovation and collaboration, "as we accelerate energy expansion, it is through shared commitment that we can achieve universal electricity access by 2030."  Noting how electricity has quietly become as essential as medicine and trained staff in the modern hospital setting, the Honourable Deputy Minister said, “access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy remains a critical enabler for quality healthcare delivery in Zimbabwe.”For Mater Dei, which serves communities across Bulawayo, Matabeleland North and beyond, this has long been a daily struggle. Like many mission and referral hospitals across the country, it has had to weather frequent power cuts, relying on noisy, costly diesel generators to keep critical wards running.“Health institutions, particularly mission and rural referral hospitals, continue to experience electricity supply interruptions that compromise essential medical services, cold-chain systems, surgical operations, and emergency response capacity,” said the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Mr. Edward Kallon. The UN Chief emphasized the broader significance of the project, "We are switching on possibilities for patients whose lives depend on uninterrupted power. This is not just about solar panels; it represents progress toward a resilient health system."He painted a stark picture of Zimbabwe's energy reality, "With only 41 percent of the population having access to electricity, it is vital we bridge this gap." Mr. Kallon called for intensifying partnerships, saying, "Progress will be unequal and unjust without focusing on those left furthest behind."When the Power Goes, Lives Hang in the BalanceAsk any nurse in the theatre wing what a sudden blackout feels like, and you will hear about the seconds that seem to stretch into hours.In the past, when ZESA power failed during surgery, staff had to scramble, relying on generators that sometimes took precious minutes to kick in or required fuel that was not always immediately at hand. Doctors recall stitching by the dim glow of backup lamps. In the maternity ward, midwives have watched monitors flicker off just as a baby’s heartbeat needed close watching.Those moments are not just inconvenient; they are terrifying. Against this backdrop, Mater Dei was “identified as a priority facility requiring resilient and sustainable energy infrastructure,” Mr. Kallon explained, outlining how the hospital was selected under the Zimbabwe Joint SDG Fund Programme as one of the flagship sites to show what decentralized renewable energy can do for social services.With support from the joint UN SDG Fund's catalytic fund, the Old Mutual Group is managing and spearheading the Renewable Energy Fund, which has invested in the installation of a solar PV hybrid system designed to provide continuous power for essential hospital operations. This system integrates rooftop solar panels, smart inverters, and battery storage alongside the grid and existing backup systems.A System Built Around Patients, Not Just PanelsMr. Samuel Matsekete, CEO of Old Mutual Group, elaborated on the project’s impact, "This solar power plant not only enhances our energy infrastructure but also supports the Sustainable Development Goals we strive to achieve." He described the solar installation's capacity: "With a generation of over 1.3 million kilowatt-hours annually, we ensure reliable power for critical health services."Mr. Matsekete celebrated blended financing and public-private partnerships, "This incredible project was made possible through collaboration, demonstrating how united efforts can tackle energy challenges head-on."The new installation is designed to keep power steady where it matters most, in operating theatres, intensive care units, maternity and neonatal wards, emergency rooms, and cold rooms that store blood, vaccines, and vital drugs.“Under the Zimbabwe Joint SDG Fund Programme – strategic investments and matched fund from the Old Mutual Group are being deployed to demonstrate how decentralized renewable energy solutions can strengthen social service delivery while advancing sustainable development outcomes,” Mr. Kallon said, positioning Mater Dei as a demonstration site for the country.In practical terms, this means fewer cancelled operations, shorter delays in emergency response, and better continuity of care for chronically ill patients. It means that staff can plan surgeries based on clinical need, not on the vagaries of the power schedule. It means mothers in labour and children in high-dependency care will no longer be at the mercy of an unexpected outage.For rural families who travel long distances to reach the hospital, the new stability can be the difference between returning home treated and returning home in grief.Cutting Costs, Cutting Emissions – and Quietly Changing LivesBeyond clinical safety, the solar system is also an economic and environmental intervention. Diesel has long been a financial burden on health facilities, siphoning funds away from medicines, staff training and maintenance.Dr. Macheka, Chairperson of Mater Dei Hospital, acknowledged the hospital's crucial role in the community, stating, “Our ability to deliver top-tier care hinges on reliable power. This solar project answers our long-standing energy reliability challenges.  Dr. Macheka explained the significance of the solar system, "For patients, it means uninterrupted access to life-saving equipment; for our dedicated staff, it offers a dignified work environment." He noted, "We are paving the way for a model that can be replicated nationwide."“The renewable energy installation enhances operational continuity, reduces dependence on diesel generation, lowers operational costs, and contributes to Zimbabwe’s commitments under SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), and SDG 13 (Climate Action),” said  Dr Macheka.Lower fuel bills translate into more resources for patient care. Savings can support the purchase of essential drugs, repair of equipment, or outreach services to remote communities. At the same time, reduced diesel use means less air and noise pollution around the hospital and a smaller carbon footprint – a local gain that feeds into a global climate effort.For staff, the human impact is immediate. Fewer nights are punctuated by the roar of generators. The wards are quieter, cleaner, and more conducive to healing. The hospital’s maintenance team can focus more on preventive upkeep of medical equipment rather than constant firefighting to keep old generators running.A Beacon for Faith-Based and Rural Health FacilitiesMater Dei is not alone in its struggles, nor in its hopes. In many parts of Zimbabwe, mission and church-run hospitals bear a disproportionate share of the burden of caring for the rural poor. These institutions often serve as the only accessible point of tertiary and secondary care for entire districts, yet they operate with fragile infrastructure and limited budgets.What happens at Mater Dei, therefore, resonates far beyond Bulawayo. The hospital’s transformation into a solar-powered facility sends a signal to similar institutions across the country - modern, climate-resilient healthcare is possible, even in resource-constrained settings.“The commissioning ceremony marks the successful completion of this flagship intervention and provides an opportunity to showcase integrated UN support towards climate-resilient health infrastructure and sustainable energy access,” the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator said, highlighting the broader vision behind the project.That “integrated support” includes not only the hardware on the roof but also training for local technicians, capacity-building for hospital management, and linkages to national energy and health policies, ensuring that Mater Dei’s new system is sustainable in the long term.A Community’s Hospital, a Country’s LessonDeputy Honouable Minister and dignitaries unveiled the commemorative plaque, and the system was officially commissioned. But the most meaningful reactions were quieter, a theatre nurse whispering that she would finally “sleep better on call”; a young mother in the maternity ward, relieved to hear that the incubators in the neonatal unit would no longer be vulnerable to outages; a technician who spoke proudly about maintaining a state-of-the-art system in the hospital.While photovoltaic panels and batteries occupy the technical spotlight, the story at Mater Dei is ultimately about people – patients whose outcomes will improve, health workers whose stress levels will lessen, and a community whose confidence in its hospital will deepen.By anchoring advanced technology in the daily realities of a faith-based hospital, the project shows how clean energy can be more than a climate solution; it can be a human solution. In a country where energy insecurity has too often translated into health insecurity, the quiet hum of solar power at Mater Dei Hospital represents something profoundly social, the right to care that does not switch off when the grid does.Welcoming guests to the Mater Dei Solar Commissioning, Mr. B. Nkomo, Old Mutual Group Board Member, said, "today marks a crucial milestone for both Mater Dei Hospital and the Old Mutual Renewable Energy Fund." He reinforced the project's role in ensuring continuity of healthcare services, adding, "Hospitals rely heavily on consistent power, and this investment secures that necessity."The official commissioning of the Mater Dei Hospital Solar Power Plant serves as a beacon of hope for energy resilience in Zimbabwe. Leaders from various sectors rallied, echoing the commitment to transform the nation’s energy landscape, ensuring that no community is left behind in the journey toward a sustainable future.As the sun set over Bulawayo on commissioning day, the hospital’s lights stayed on – powered not by the rumble of diesel, but by the fading rays stored on its rooftop.  For the communities of Bulawayo and Matabeleland North and the staff who serve them, that steady glow was more than illumination. It was a promise.

In a small rural community in Mangwe, Zimbabwe, 539km from the capital city Harare, Annah Dube holds out a sketch of her homestead. The drawing looks simple, a few rectangles for the house and granary, a couple of fields, cattle, goats and chickens. To her it’s a map of possibility. “Before, these were just things we owned,” she says, tapping the page. “Now I see them as tools to create a better life for my family.”This shift in mindset was sparked by the Participatory Integrated Climate Services for Agriculture (PICSA) programme, implemented by the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNDP, with the Government of Zimbabwe, through AGRITEX and the Meteorological Services Department. The PICSA approach is a simple but powerful idea: provide farmers with knowledge and tools to make informed decisions.The programme brings together historical climate information, seasonal forecasts, and farmers’ own knowledge of their local conditions, using participatory planning approaches to help them make informed agricultural and livelihoods decisions. Through a train‑the‑trainers model, UN Agencies equip AGRITEX officers with PICSA tools, enabling them to guide farmers in linking their resources and priorities to reliable, locally relevant climate information.”In the 2025/26 season alone, over 23,000 farmers across six districts, Masvingo, Chipinge, Mwenezi, Mangwe, Rushinga, and Mt Darwin, benefited from PICSA training. Women make up 64% of participants, underscoring the programme’s role in empowering households.The pathway begins with the Resource Allocation Map, the picture Annah carries, inviting families to list every asset they already have: a field, a stand of trees, a small herd, a chicken coop, a well to access water. That’s followed by the seasonal calendar and a steady stream of seasonal and short-term forecasts, delivered with support from meteorologists. With that evidence in hand, farmers make concrete decisions: what to grow, when to plant, what to scale up, what to pause.“We used to guess,” shared Julius Siwadi, a farmer in Masvingo. “Now we plan. When the first rains came, I already had my fields prepared and mulched. The harvest fed us through the hungry months.”PICSA’s strength is that it doesn’t replace farmers’ judgment; it structures it. One AGRITEX officer, Daniel Kampiawo, in Rushinga put it this way: “PICSA doesn’t give orders. It gives options and the reasons behind them.” Officers say the programme has changed their work too, offering a clear framework, materials at hand, and a language that makes climate data understandable. With those tools, they report deeper trust and more regular dialogue especially around weather updates during the season.The ripple effects travel quickly. Farmers share what they learn within the household and across the village via farmer groups, demonstration plots, WhatsApp, and radio. That last channel has expanded PICSA’s reach. Trained AGRITEX officers now host radio programmes that walk listeners through pieces of the curriculum and seasonal advice, making climate smart planning available even where phones and data are scarce.The numbers behind those stories are striking. A 2025 report found that nearly all farmers made changes after training, 92% in crops, 50% in livestock, and 27% in livelihoods. Four out of five reported better food security, and almost two thirds saw household income rise. Many described moving planting dates earlier (guided by forecasts), adopting drought tolerant crops like sorghum and pearl millet, and improving soil and moisture management. Among those who shifted planting dates, 80% saw yield gains.Not every barrier is one training away from a fix. Many farmers said they wanted to do more but were held back by cash, inputs, and the risk of a bad season. “PICSA doesn’t pretend to solve all of that. What it does is reduce uncertainty and help households make the best possible decisions with what they have, when they need to make them,” explained WFP Programme Policy Officer, Munyaradzi Mubaiwa.In a country where climate change threatens food security, PICSA has become a strategic tool. By blending scientific knowledge with local realities, it empowers farmers and helps them thrive. As Annah shared, “We no longer wait for luck. We plan, we act, and we build our future.”This support was made possible by the Green Climate Fund, UNDP, the Government of Zimbabwe and other partners.