Zimbabwe Billionaire Commits $165 Million to 300 MW Solar Development in Eswatini

Eswatini could see a significant boost to its renewable energy capacity following a commitment by Zimbabwean businessman and renewable energy investor Wicknell Chivayo to develop a 300 MW solar power project in the Kingdom.

The investment pledge emerged during a meeting between His Majesty King Mswati III and Chivayo at the Royal Palace last week, where discussions focused on infrastructure investment, energy development and broader economic cooperation.

As part of the engagement, King Mswati III granted Chivayo Eswatini citizenship and presented him with a diplomatic passport, citing his philanthropic work across Southern Africa and his interest in supporting the Kingdom’s socio-economic development objectives.

Chivayo subsequently announced plans to invest approximately around $165 million through Mauritius-based Intratrek Holdings to develop the proposed solar facility as an Independent Power Producer (IPP).

The project, which is expected to be constructed on a 120-hectare site allocated by the King, would represent one of the largest renewable energy developments in Eswatini. Once operational, the plant is expected to strengthen domestic power supply, improve energy security and support the country’s long-term industrialisation agenda.

The proposed investment aligns with Eswatini’s efforts to diversify its energy mix and reduce reliance on imported electricity, while creating opportunities for private-sector participation in the power sector.

Chivayo’s business portfolio spans renewable energy, thermal and hydropower generation, engineering, infrastructure development and construction projects across Africa. His company has been involved in several energy initiatives aimed at expanding electricity access and supporting economic growth on the continent.

Beyond the energy sector, Chivayo has also gained prominence for philanthropic and humanitarian activities. According to information shared during the engagement, he has committed more than US$200 million over the past year towards social development initiatives in Zimbabwe and other African countries.

Eswatini’s government has continued to position private-sector investment as a key driver of economic development, particularly in strategic sectors such as energy, infrastructure and manufacturing. The proposed solar project is expected to contribute to job creation, infrastructure expansion and increased economic activity while supporting the Kingdom’s broader energy transition objectives.