Madzikanda to head ZERA board

ENGINEER and academic Dr David Madzikanda will chair the new Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority ( ZERA) board that has been appointed by Energy and Power Development Minister Zhemu Soda.

The seven-member board takes over from the Dr Esther Khosa-led board, whose term expired. Announcing the appointments, Minister Soda urged the board to observe good corporate governance and address challenges in the energy sector.

“The issue of power supply is critical. As you might be aware, over 50 percent of the country is yet to be connected to the grid. There are over 60 licensed independent power projects which are yet to take off. The issue of renewable energy is a key aspect of the economy and the energy sector. I look forward to you addressing issues of power purchase agreements, competitive bidding process, among a number of licence applications-related processes that require the board’s oversight,” Minister Soda said.

“I expect you to provide contemporary and professional advice to me as your minister on all matters relating to the energy industry in order to make the sector competitive. I also expect you to assess, promote studies of and advise me as your minister and licencees on the environmental impact of energy projects before licensing.”

The board comprises experts in the fields of electrical engineering, petroleum, finance and administration. Dr Madzikanda is an academic and lecturer at the University of Zimbabwe.

Other board members include vice chairperson Engineer Farai Mavhiya, ZERA chief executive officer Mr Eddington Mazambani, Thembelani Ncube, Masimba Kambarami, Tambudzai Madzivire and Dr Sosten Ziuku.

Two female board members, who are currently undergoing the requisite vetting formalities, will be announced in due course.