Zimbabwe has commissioned a new $48.1 million water pipeline to supply its largest power plant, easing concerns about energy shortages in the southern African nation. 

The 42-kilometer pipeline, which has been undergoing upgrades since 2023, will transport water from the Zambezi River to Hwange Power Station, which generates electricity for the country. Funded by India’s Exim Bank, the project will support the expansion of the power plant with two new units.

Energy and Power Development Minister Edgar Moyo said at the commissioning ceremony that the project will enhance Zimbabwe’s electricity generating capacity, contributing 600 more megawatts at Hwange Power Station. 

Zimbabwe has been grappling with power deficits of about 600 megawatts due to rising demand and drought, Moyo said. He also decried vandalism of electricity infrastructure, which has cost the country $18 million since 2016.

The new pipeline runs parallel to an existing one and includes three offtakes for the local community. Construction began in October 2021 and was completed by an Indian contractor. The project is part of Zimbabwe’s efforts to boost its power generation capacity and reduce reliance on imports.

India’s Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, Puneet Kundal, attended the ceremony along with Indian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Vijay Khanduja.