Billionaire Strive Masiyiwa Invests in Big Solar-Powered Project in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwean billionaire Strive Masiyiwa is leading a major new project that uses 100 megawatts (MW) of solar energy to power a large industrial park near Robert Mugabe International Airport in Harare. This development aims to boost renewable energy, create jobs, and attract manufacturing businesses to Africa. 

What the Project Is

• The project is being built by Econet InfraCo, the infrastructure arm of Econet Wireless Zimbabwe.
• It will include a 300-hectare industrial park powered by a 100 MW solar power plant and large data centres for digital services.
• The location close to the airport will help attract manufacturers and export-focused companies because it combines power, logistics and connectivity.

By building this park, Masiyiwa aims to make Zimbabwe — and Africa — a stronger base for industry, jobs and trade powered by clean energy.

Why Solar Power Matters

Solar energy is a renewable and clean source of electricity that does not pollute the air like fossil fuels do. Across Africa, many nations are building large solar plants to increase energy access and fight climate change.

For example:

• Zambia has completed a 100 MW solar power station in Chisamba to help reduce energy shortages and power tens of thousands of homes. 
• Other countries like Namibia and Eswatini are also investing in 100 MW solar farms to strengthen their grids and support growth.

Masiyiwa’s solar-powered industrial park adds to this broader renewable energy growth trend in Africa.

How It Helps the Economy

The industrial park project may have several benefits:

• Stable power: Solar energy can provide a reliable energy source for businesses that need electricity to operate.
• Lower costs: Solar power can reduce energy costs over time compared with diesel or coal.
• Attracting investment: By offering power and data access in one place, the park hopes to draw manufacturers and exporters who want lower operating risks.
• Jobs: Construction and future factory operations are expected to create jobs in Zimbabwe and the wider region.

This approach reflects a growing trend where energy, technology, and infrastructure come together to support economic development.

Masiyiwa’s Broader Strategy

Strive Masiyiwa has been pushing for innovation and technology growth across Africa. He has also led initiatives in artificial intelligence (AI) and digital infrastructure through his companies.

• Masiyiwa’s firms are building an AI factory in Cape Town, South Africa, with advanced computing equipment to support research and development.
• He also supports digital infrastructure, including data centres and fibre networks, to help Africa connect to global technology trends.

The solar-powered industrial park shows how renewable energy can be part of a broader technology and industry strategy on the continent. 

Why This Matters for Africa

Africa has one of the fastest-growing renewable energy markets in the world. Solar capacity across the continent passed 20 gigawatts as countries expanded clean energy installations.

Projects like Masiyiwa’s industrial park could:

• Support new industries by giving them reliable, clean power.
• Reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions.
• Encourage more private investment in renewable and digital infrastructure.
• Help countries reach climate and energy goals set for the next decade.

This project shows how business leadership and renewables can work together to drive economic growth, clean energy and innovation in Africa.

Bottom Line

Zimbabwean billionaire Strive Masiyiwa is pushing a bold new solar-powered industrial park that could become one of Africa’s major clean energy-powered developments. By combining 100 MW of solar power, logistics access and digital infrastructure, the project aims to attract businesses, create jobs and expand renewable energy’s role in industrial growth — helping shape the future of clean power and economic development in the region.