Businessman Wicknell Chivhayo has addressed growing concerns surrounding the stalled 30-megawatt Gairezi Hydro Power Project, attributing the delays to financing constraints rather than mismanagement or misuse of funds.
Responding to questions raised by Nyanga South Member of Parliament Supa Mandiwanzira, Chivhayo said the project’s slow progress had been widely misunderstood, particularly by communities that had anticipated immediate economic benefits from the development.
He acknowledged the frustration felt by residents in the area, many of whom had expected employment opportunities and increased economic activity once construction began.
“I fully understand the disappointment of the community,” Chivhayo said, noting that expectations had been high due to the project’s potential to create jobs and stimulate local development. “I share the frustration of those who were hoping the project would already be delivering tangible benefits.”
Chivhayo dismissed claims that the project stalled because of poor management or payments that had already been made, insisting that access to sustainable financing remained the primary obstacle.
He further clarified that the Gairezi Hydro Power tender was not awarded to him as an individual, but to an international consortium led by Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), a state-owned engineering company from India.
The consortium also includes Angelique International, with Intratrek Zimbabwe participating as the local contracting partner. According to Chivhayo, the consortium secured the project after emerging as the lowest compliant bidder, meeting all technical and financial requirements set out in the tender process.
He explained that such consortium-based arrangements are standard practice in large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly across Africa, where local firms often partner with established international companies to leverage their technical expertise, balance-sheet strength, and access to global financing.
“Large infrastructure projects of this nature rely heavily on the financial credibility and engineering capacity of international partners,” Chivhayo said. “This model is widely used across the continent and is essential for projects that require long-term funding and specialised technical skills.”
The Gairezi Hydro Power Project is viewed as a strategic investment capable of contributing to Zimbabwe’s renewable energy mix, easing pressure on the national grid and supporting economic growth in Manicaland Province.
Chivhayo said efforts were continuing to unlock funding and ensure the project moves forward, adding that transparency and engagement with both policymakers and local communities remained key to restoring confidence.
The project’s future progress will be closely watched as Zimbabwe continues to pursue alternative energy solutions to address persistent power shortages and promote sustainable development.
