by JEFFREY MANTAMBABINGA
BINGA – THE Batoka Gorge Hydroelectric Scheme, a joint energy project between Zimbabwe and Zambia, remains one of Southern Africa’s most ambitious infrastructure developments aimed at addressing chronic electricity shortages in both countries.
Situated along the Zambezi River near Binga in Matabeleland North Province, the project is expected to transform energy supply and economic prospects for the region once completed.
As of 8 March 2026, construction of the Batoka Gorge Dam has not yet started, although preparations are advancing.
The project has experienced several delays over the past decade due to financing challenges, procurement disputes and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Zambia withdrew from an earlier construction contract in 2023 over transparency concerns, forcing the two governments to restart the tender process.
Engineering studies, financial advisory processes and investor mobilisation are currently underway.
In late 2025, Zimbabwe and Zambia reaffirmed their commitment to the project by agreeing to contribute US$220 million each toward the initial stages of construction, bringing the combined government contribution to US$440 million.
The entire project is estimated to cost about US$4.2 billion and will be implemented under a Public-Private Partnership model to attract international investors.
Once completed, the Batoka Gorge power station is expected to generate approximately 2,400 megawatts of electricity, with each country receiving about 1,200 megawatts.
This additional capacity will significantly strengthen national power grids that have struggled with frequent electricity shortages.
Currently, Zimbabwe and Zambia rely heavily on the Kariba Hydropower Station, which has a combined generation capacity of about 2,050 megawatts.
Zambia’s North Bank Power Station produces roughly 1,080 megawatts, while Zimbabwe’s South Bank contributes about 1,050 megawatts to the regional grid.
Batoka Gorge is located roughly 50 kilometres downstream from Victoria Falls and not far from Kariba along the Zambezi River system.
Its development is designed to complement Kariba and reduce the risk of power shortages caused by fluctuating water levels in the existing dam.
For the people of Binga and the wider Matabeleland North province, the project carries enormous economic potential.
Thousands of jobs are expected during the construction phase, while local businesses could benefit from increased economic activity, improved infrastructure and tourism opportunities.
Access to electricity in rural communities could also improve significantly.
Reliable power supply would help stimulate small industries, irrigation schemes and service sectors, thereby enhancing livelihoods.
Livestock farmers and small-scale miners in Binga could benefit from better infrastructure, roads and energy access associated with the project.
Furthermore, local authorities expect social development initiatives such as schools, clinics and water supply systems to accompany the dam’s construction.
Once operational, the Batoka Gorge Hydropower Project will strengthen regional energy security, boost industrial growth and improve economic prospects for both Zimbabwe and Zambia, while bringing long-awaited development to the communities of the Zambezi Valley.
– CAJ News
