THE Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has begun rolling out projects across all eight rural provinces as it works to meet a government directive to electrify every rural school and health centre by the end of 2026.
The programme is part of efforts to close the infrastructure gap between urban and rural communities, improve the quality of public services and accelerate progress towards national development goals anchored on inclusive growth.
Energy and Power Development minister July Moyo directed the agency to ensure universal access to electricity at rural learning institutions and clinics, describing the move as critical to strengthening education and healthcare delivery.
REA public relations and marketing executive Johannes Nyamayedenga said the agency was confident of meeting the target in line with the national vision of leaving no one and no place behind.
“Under National Development Strategy 2, our focus is on the electrification of schools and clinics, which we aim to complete by the end of 2026. All provinces are now fully engaged in implementing the programme,” he said.
Since its establishment in 2002, REA has electrified 8 356 of the 10 771 targeted rural schools and health facilities. The remaining 2 417 institutions are expected to be connected by year-end.
The electrification drive has transformed learning environments in rural areas, enabling access to information and communication technologies and improving working conditions for teachers.
Rural health centres have also been modernised, with electricity powering essential medical equipment and improving the quality and reliability of healthcare services for previously underserved communities.
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Nyamayedenga said the agency’s work aligns with Vision 2030 and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s development agenda.
“REA is positioning itself as a key driver of Vision 2030 and firmly championing the provision of energy to all rural communities,” he said.
Nyamayedenga said by expanding access to electricity, REA is reinforcing the government’s ambition to build a highly educated and healthy population capable of driving sustainable national development.
