Leaders Urge Action, Investment and Cross-Border Collaboration at ZimZam 2025
The Zimbabwe–Zambia Energy Projects Summit (ZimZam 2025) opened on 26th November at the Radisson Blu Mosi-Oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort, signalling renewed momentum for regional energy cooperation, private sector investment, and Southern Africa’s clean energy transition.
The three-day summit brings together senior government officials, regional bodies, investors, and energy leaders to accelerate cross-border infrastructure and strengthen the region’s power markets.
Supported by the African Union (AU) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and hosted by the Copperbelt Energy Corporation (CEC) with Petrodex, ZESCO and Standard Bank as key partners, the summit underscores the region’s commitment to modernising energy systems and expanding reliable electricity access.
Opened under the theme “Mines and Energy: How Stakeholders Have Fast-Tracked Private Sector Projects to Become Africa’s Top Investment Destination,” the event highlighted the urgent need for investment-ready policies, public–private partnerships, and modern transmission networks.
Speaking at the opening, H.E. Honourable Credo Nanjuwa, MP and Provincial Minister of Southern Province, stressed the importance of action-oriented collaboration.
“Your presence affirms this summit as a regional platform for investment, innovation and strategic cooperation. This summit must never become a talk show. Our industries and citizens need results. Let us unlock deals, secure financing and build the energy systems that will power our future,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Energy and Power Development, H.E. Honourable Yeukai Simbanegavi, emphasised the need for stronger cross-border cooperation.
“Energy challenges have reminded us that we are connected beyond borders. As Zimbabwe moves into NDS2, more private sector investments are expected, supported by reforms that promote ease of doing business.”
Petrodex Deputy CEO, Monie Captan, highlighted the role of regional power trading in driving growth. “Regional power trading will be a major catalyst, connecting surplus and deficit markets through modern infrastructure.”
Standard Bank echoed the need for innovative financing. “Zambia’s mining and energy sectors are driving transformation. We are eager to co-create solutions that elevate the region,” said Helen Lubamba, Head of Corporate and Investment Banking at Stanbic Bank Zambia.
The AU Commission commenced its High-Level Consultation on the Grand Inga Strategic Coordination Committee, while SADC and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) led discussions on the Draft SADC Just Energy Transition Framework, aimed at achieving universal clean energy access by 2050.
ZESCO Managing Director, Justin Loongo, outlined recent reforms that have improved investor confidence. “Through open access and predictable tariffs, we have created an environment where partnerships can deliver real progress,” he said.
With strong participation from government, regional bodies and key industry players, ZimZam 2025 has set a strong foundation for advancing renewable energy, expanding regional interconnections, and mobilising financing to unlock Southern Africa’s energy potential.
