Engineer Kachirekwa pushes for consolidation of Africa’s energy systems

STAFF WRITER

Renowned energy expert, Dr. Engineer Edzai Kachirekwa says African countries should drift away from external dependance for energy requirements, and position the continent as a dominant generation hub through reengineering power generation and transmission systems to ensure energy self-sufficiency.

Speaking at the Entrepreneurs Network of Zimbabwe (ENZ) Legacy Laureate Awards held in Harare, Dr Kachirekwa who is also the Power Giants Africa CEO and Transmission Director said, “Africa should build solid energy infrastructure and power grids to fuel industrialisation and spur economic development on the continent.

Energy is the backbone of sustainable economic development because all fundamental economic activities are hinged on uninterrupted access to power.

As such, depending on external sources alone is detrimental to the development of the continent.

Currently, Africa is positioned as a net energy importer dependent on other regions instead of being a dominant power hub.

The modern global energy system operates much like a synchronised power grid, where different regions act as generation hubs, transmission corridors and load centres.”

The awards celebrated business leaders driving Impact, sustainable growth and community empowerment under the theme “Building Legacies, Empowering Families”.

They recognised businesses and individuals that “transcended profit to create economic change”.

Among those who were honoured this year is Dr, Engineer Edzai Kachirekwa who was recognised for his significant contributions to the energy sector.

Other award recipients are Yvonne Marambanyika, Kudakwashe Tapiwa Juta and Chanazi Washaya who were recognised in various categories.

Most African countries remain trapped in energy poverty characterised by excessive load shedding and importation of electricity, a tragic situation which Dr. Kachirekwa characterised as “dire and regrettable.”

He called on African countries to learn from past mistakes.

Dr. Kachirekwa, who is also the Afro Eurasia Energy Centre president, is renowned for his passion for energy and power development across Africa.

He is a force to reckon with in all things to do with energy and power systems, a vocal advocate of Africa’s energy sovereignty and a clean energy champion who was recently honoured with the prestigious Africa Iconic Award (2026) as well as being appointed a Board Member for the prestigious Iconic Africa Holdings — an elite body of distinguished leaders, CEOs and experts whose members are selected based on their proven track record of excellence, unwavering integrity,and dedication to the principles of sustainable development and good governance.

His company, Power Giants Africa has earned a clean reputation as a market leader in the provision of renewable energy infrastructure solutions and power transmission systems, earning numerous accolades over the years.