Solar panel manufacturing plant to aid key industries

ZIMBABWE’S plans to build a solar panel manufacturing plant, which has attracted global interest, mark a shift in the country’s energy and industrialisation strategy, according to a top African solar industry report. The thrust signals a deliberate push to attract foreign investment into renewable energy and clean technologies, while building domestic clean energy production capacity. It reflects growing recognition among policymakers that solar panel manufacturing is not only about expanding power generation, but also strengthening national energy security.

Investment in this area would significantly reduce import dependence and embed renewable energy within Zimbabwe’s broader industrialisation drive. This could position the country as a regional production hub, unlock regional export opportunities, create jobs, accelerate essential technical skills and support the transformation of Zimbabwe’s energy sector and manufacturing base. The plans are spotlighted in the Africa Solar Outlook 2026, a flagship annual report by the African Solar Industry Association (AFSIA), which provides a comprehensive country-by-country assessment of solar energy development across the continent.

AFSIA is the reference group for solar professionals in Africa. The association is headquartered in Kigali, Rwanda, and carries out solar-related activities and programmes across Africa.