Kumbirai's Vision: Empowering Africa's Future with...

Kumbirai's Vision: Empowering Africa's Future with Renewable Energy

Audrey Galawu

Assistant Editor

In the rapidly evolving landscape of renewable energy in Africa, Kumbirai Makanza, a self-described Afroturist and cleantech entrepreneur, is a rising force. His journey from the boardrooms of venture capital firms to the heart of solar and wind projects demonstrates his unwavering belief in the potential of Africa—and how sustainable energy can power its future.

Kumbirai’s passion for cleantech was ignited shortly after completing his university education. His first role was at an impact venture capital firm focused on high-impact businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa. At the time, fintech was booming, bridging financial gaps with mobile innovations. However, Kumbirai saw a deeper issue: access to reliable electricity. Many Africans, particularly those in rural areas, lacked this fundamental necessity. Inspired by the fintech revolution, he realized that renewable energy could be the next transformative wave.

"I saw how renewable energy, paired with the right financial solutions, could lay the foundation for Africa’s development," Kumbirai recalls. “Utilities were struggling, and the opportunity to disrupt the energy landscape was clear."

Breaking Ground in Renewable Energy

After gaining valuable experience in impact investing, Kumbirai joined a regional solar company, further deepening his expertise in the renewable energy sector. Determined to make a broader impact, he simultaneously pursued an MBA in renewable energy, equipping himself with the knowledge needed to lead projects across the continent.

His ambition? To harness Africa's abundant natural resources—sun, wind, and water—and drive the continent toward energy independence. But Kumbirai’s vision goes beyond environmental sustainability. For him, renewable energy is not only about saving the planet; it’s about creating jobs, boosting economies, and improving the quality of life for millions.

The Power of Diaspora Investment

While Kumbirai is based in Zimbabwe, his influence extends globally, particularly within the Zimbabwean diaspora. With millions of Zimbabweans living abroad, remittances have become a lifeline for the economy, amounting to over US$1 billion annually. Kumbirai sees untapped potential in this massive financial flow.

"The diaspora is already supporting household incomes, but there's an opportunity for long-term investment—especially in renewable energy," he says. "Imagine the impact if even a fraction of those remittances were directed towards solar or wind projects."

However, Kumbirai acknowledges the challenges faced by Zimbabwean migrants looking to invest in such projects. Trust in local systems has been eroded over the years due to economic instability, hyperinflation, and policy inconsistencies. To address these concerns, Kumbirai advocates for more transparent policies, stronger financial products, and targeted outreach to help rebuild confidence.

Pioneering Diaspora-Focused Energy Solutions

Kumbirai's work goes beyond advocacy. He co-founded Umlilo Energy, a company focused on providing solar systems to Zimbabweans living in the UK for their families back home. The initiative taps into the diaspora's desire to improve living conditions for their loved ones while also promoting clean energy solutions.

"We’ve seen immense interest in solar systems because they offer a reliable energy source in a country plagued by power outages," says Kumbirai. "But this is just the beginning. There’s potential to expand this model to broader renewable energy investments."

In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Kumbirai is involved in discussions around diaspora bonds—a concept floated by the Zimbabwean government to finance infrastructure projects, including energy. While progress has been slow, he remains optimistic that such bonds could eventually unlock significant diaspora capital for national development.

A Brighter Future for Africa

Kumbirai sees enormous potential in large-scale renewable energy projects, such as solar farms and wind energy ventures, particularly those operating under Power Purchase Agreements. These agreements provide a stable return on investment, making renewable energy an attractive proposition for diaspora investors seeking both financial returns and social impact.

"Solar and wind projects aren’t just about generating electricity," he emphasizes. "They’re about creating long-term economic stability, job creation, and, most importantly, energy security for Africa."

With Kumbirai’s guidance, Africa's renewable energy future looks bright. His focus on innovative financial models, diaspora engagement, and community-driven solutions showcases a new path for sustainable development across the continent. For Kumbirai, it’s not just about keeping the lights on; it’s about empowering Africa to thrive in the 21st century and beyond.

He believes the renewable energy sector is at a tipping point. As Africa continues to develop, the demand for sustainable energy solutions will only grow. But success, he argues, requires collaboration—from governments, the private sector, and the diaspora.

"We need to work together to create investment products that are both secure and impactful," he concludes. "By doing so, we can help shape a cleaner, more prosperous future for Africa."

In Kumbirai’s vision, renewable energy is more than just a business opportunity—it’s a catalyst for Africa's transformation, turning the continent’s natural resources into a powerful force for social, economic, and environmental progress.

Through his innovative work and relentless advocacy, Kumbirai is lighting the way for Africa's clean energy revolution—one solar panel, one wind turbine, and one community at a time.