Reactions to request for special tariffs to avert ...

Reactions to request for special tariffs to avert power cuts

In a classic battle of the haves and have-nots, the inhabitants of the affluent suburb of Greendale, who reside along Shaneragh Road, have proposed an innovative solution to circumvent the power cuts that have plagued Zimbabwe.

They have petitioned to be included in a pilot project that guarantees them electricity at a premium price, which they have willingly agreed to pay.

The residents launched this initiative during a time when Zimbabwe was grappling with reduced electricity generation, leading to frequent power outages. Zesa Holdings, the country’s electricity supplier, has been implementing load shedding since the previous year, resulting in most suburbs experiencing blackouts from as early as 5:00 am to as late as 10:00 pm.

Brian Shenje, a community leader, approached the Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company, a subsidiary of Zesa, to address the issue of extended load-shedding hours. ZETDC informed him that the only solution to guarantee an uninterrupted power supply was through paying a higher tariff.

Shenje confirmed that he consulted with senior management at Zesa, who indicated that the residents could avoid load shedding by paying a premium price for electricity. He added that they were required to put their request in writing and submit it to Zesa’s committees.

According to Shenje, if the residents agreed to pay the higher tariff, they would not experience load shedding.

“We have been assured that if we pay a higher tariff, they will ensure that we don’t experience load shedding. This is how we plan to manage load shedding,” Shenje said.

The news of the Greendale residents’ initiative has elicited a mixed reaction from Zimbabweans on Twitter. Some people commend the move as a practical solution to an urgent problem, while others criticize it as a sign of growing inequality.

Below are some of the comments:

@nehoreka1:

I understand the need for reliable electricity, but guaranteeing it at a higher tariff may create an uneven distribution of resources. The government should focus on sustainable solutions for all, such as investing in renewable energy or upgrading infrastructure.

@iampaulsitive:

If it’s their choice then it’s fine but this shows the growing gap of inequality in our country….

@TendayiZinyama:

Very noble idea but a very bad precedent as the haves will have electricity whilst the have not don’t have . If need be let there be encouragement of private players who should compete with ZESA hence better chances of better services

@HandyAndrew5:

If we all request for the same is there enough power to supply all of us? If not then don’t favour some coz it will mean worse load-sheding for others.

@tidzo:

Slippery slippery slope. I know Zesa is trying to make ends meet but if a lot of areas take this up all that happens is the price of electricity goes up and becomes a preserve of the rich. My view is its a bad idea that will only widen the gap between the rich and the poor.