Mutisi Praises Hichilema, Calls for Action on Zimbabwe’s Power Crisis

In a bold critique, ZANU PF’s Kudzai Mutisi lauded Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema for his hands-on approach, while casting a spotlight on Zimbabwe’s sluggish response to its electricity challenges.

Hichilema recently led senior Zambian officials to Victoria Falls to witness the diminishing water levels affecting power generation. Mutisi contrasted this proactive measure with Zimbabwean leaders who, he argues, rely on excuses rather than solutions.

Zimbabwe’s government continues to blame load-shedding on low water levels at Kariba Dam, a stance that has drawn frustration from citizens who want real answers, not deflections. Mutisi pointed out that both Zambia and Zimbabwe are “waiting for the rain,” but it’s a lack of initiative that’s truly draining the power supply.

Coal is abundant in Zimbabwe. The country boasts enough reserves to generate electricity for centuries. Mutisi, however, claims the issue lies with the absence of political will. This stagnation hinders the country’s progress in boosting power generation.

The African politician, he says, often lacks a crucial understanding of electricity’s role in economic development. The Western world’s ascent to global wealth and power was catalyzed by electricity; without it, African nations will remain economic dwarfs, he asserted.

Mutisi’s frustration is palpable, as he highlights the consequences of the ongoing power shortages on ordinary Zimbabweans. For him, slogans and political rhetoric are masking the real issue: a failure to deliver practical solutions.

He does not shy away from challenging Zimbabwe’s leadership. While he claims not to oppose President Mnangagwa’s rule, Mutisi emphasizes that leadership must be results-driven. If there’s no tangible progress, what does the 2030 vision even mean?

This sentiment echoes across the nation. Load-shedding has crippled businesses, homes, and industries, leaving citizens yearning for consistent electricity and answers. Many feel that leaders are out of touch with their struggles.

While Zambians see their leader physically investigating the issue, Zimbabweans hear explanations—disconnected from the lived realities of daily power outages. Mutisi’s words reflect growing disillusionment with officials who offer no immediate plan for relief.

Zimbabwe’s coal potential is vast. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has opportunities to collaborate on energy, yet little is happening. As the regional body drags its feet, ordinary people pay the price.

Mutisi’s remarks serve as a call to action, not just for Zimbabwe but for Africa at large. With resource-rich nations unable to solve their own energy crises, the continent’s dream of economic independence remains stunted.

For Zimbabweans, the solution lies not in waiting for rainfall but in harnessing the country’s resources—like coal—to create a sustainable and reliable energy future. The lack of urgency is driving public dissatisfaction.

Mutisi’s critique cuts deep, resonating with a populace that feels leaders are preoccupied with politics rather than practicalities. His pointed reference to slogan-chanting underscores the frustration felt by citizens over unmet expectations.

Zimbabwe’s future success depends on moving away from empty rhetoric and embracing innovation. Mutisi’s message is clear: it’s time to stop talking and start doing. And until that shift happens, the vision of a prosperous, energy-secure Zimbabwe will remain just that—a vision.

People are demanding electricity, not just explanations. Authorities need to face this reality if they are to meet the needs of their citizens and unlock the country’s true economic potential. The clock is ticking.

The Zim Bulletin