Zimbabwe’s Solar for Health Initiative Powers 1,044 Health Facilities

By Adebowale Bello. Freelance Health Writer.

Friday, October 25, 2024. Zimbabwe has equipped 1,044 health facilities with solar power systems, reaching a total capacity of 11 megawatts, under the Solar for Health (SH4F) initiative. Health and Child Care Minister, Dr. Douglas Mombeshora, announced this progress after unveiling a 450-kW solar power system at NatPharm’s Harare warehouse.

The SH4F project, launched in 2016 through funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Fund, is transforming healthcare by ensuring continuous, reliable power across essential services. “This monumental investment has enabled our health facilities to function autonomously, especially in critical areas such as maternity, laboratories, pharmacy and health information systems,” said Dr. Mombeshora.

With solar power now available, these facilities can operate seamlessly, avoiding disruptions to vital services due to power outages. The solar systems not only power on-site services but also feed surplus electricity into the national grid, creating additional benefits for the broader community. "This solar unit at NatPharm is expected to save us approximately $150,000 in annual electricity costs," added Dr. Mombeshora. “This aligns with our vision for sustainable and resilient healthcare infrastructure.”

Since its inception, the Solar for Health initiative has addressed significant challenges in Zimbabwe’s healthcare system, such as unreliable electricity affecting vaccine storage, laboratory testing and patient monitoring. According to UNDP resident representative Dr. Ayodele Odusola, the Solar for Health project was established to combat electricity shortages that compromised quality healthcare. “UNDP, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, initiated this project to secure funding for sustainable, renewable energy solutions essential for the fight against HIV, TB and malaria,” he explained.

NatPharm Board Chairperson, Ms. Ruth Kaseke, praised the UNDP and Global Fund for their forward-thinking investment in solar technology, urging other organizations to contribute to Zimbabwe’s healthcare sustainability efforts. The Solar for Health initiative represents a critical step toward dependable healthcare in Zimbabwe, supporting essential services while fostering sustainable energy use and resilience across the nation’s health infrastructure.

Learn more about the UNDP solar for Health Initiative here

Source: The Herald

Published: October 25, 2024

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