When you think you’ve seen it all, the once reputable Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) shocks the nation with an unrealistically steep hike in electricity tariffs. This shocking decision leaves those born in the years 2021 and 2022 to read about ZESA’s past glory, using candles in the darkness that has become their reality. It appears that ZESA’s management, appointed through nepotism and kickbacks, is disconnected from the harsh realities on the ground. The truth is that electricity tariffs have skyrocketed while the supply has dwindled to a mere pittance, reminiscent of the notorious inefficiencies of the ruling party, ZANU-PF.
The current state of affairs raises questions about ZESA’s power infrastructure development and power generation capabilities. It seems that the ruling party, ZANU-PF, which has been plagued by allegations of corruption and negligence, has failed to invest in and modernize the power production and distribution infrastructure to meet the growing demand. The effects of this negligence ripple throughout the nation, with dire consequences for Zimbabwe’s citizens.
ZANU-PF’s illegitimacy has further exacerbated the crisis, leading to widespread unemployment, economic decline, and deindustrialization. The dire economic situation has driven many desperate youths to resort to theft, targeting valuable accessories critical to power generation and distribution. These stolen items not only worsen the already fragile power infrastructure but also reflect the desperation of the youth, who struggle to provide for their families, including purchasing expensive medicines for their ailing parents.
Despite these grim circumstances, ZESA, teetering on the edge of collapse, has boldly chosen to hike electricity tariffs. Shockingly, the bulk of the additional funds generated from these tariff hikes will likely end up lining the pockets of the corrupt and privileged members of ZANU-PF, who seem more interested in building extravagant mansions and purchasing luxury cars than in addressing the nation’s power woes.
Unless there is a radical change in leadership, with a focus on the people’s welfare and a commitment to revitalizing the energy sector, Zimbabweans may find themselves increasingly reliant on candles for their daily lighting needs. The hope lies with the resilient and innovative opposition, which has shown a genuine dedication to the well-being of the people. In stark contrast, the illegitimate and failing ZANU-PF has demonstrated a lack of interest in addressing the country’s power crisis, preferring to divert resources to their own personal gain.
In conclusion, ZESA’s shocking tariff hike serves as a stark reminder of the dire state of electricity supply in Zimbabwe. The disconnect between the ruling party, ZANU-PF, and the everyday struggles of the citizens has left the nation in the dark, both literally and metaphorically. To truly address this crisis and bring light back into the lives of Zimbabweans, a change in leadership is imperative. Until then, the people of Zimbabwe must brace themselves for more candlelit nights as they navigate the turbulent waters of a failing electricity system.