Iconic Africa Awards: Engineer Kachirekwa’s star continues to shine
ZIMBABWEAN energy expert, Engineer Edzai Kachirekwa, who was honoured at the recently held Iconic Africa Awards as one of the most influential Africans in the energy sector, has described the award as a vindication to his tireless efforts to ensure that every African has access to reliable and affordable energy.
Held under the theme, “The Africa We Want: Sustainable Development; Everyone’s Responsibility,” the event celebrated leaders in business, faith, and women’s empowerment recognizing contributions in business, entrepreneurship, leadership, innovation and community development which deeply resonates with Engineer Kachirekwa’s thrust of ensuring access to affordable and reliable energy for all.
His recognition as one of the most influential Africans in the energy sector was a result of sustained impact through his initiatives in the energy and power development sector on the African continent.
Other luminaries who were honoured include Dr Kudakwashe Tagwirei, Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu, Presidential Investment Advisor Dr Paul Tungwarara, Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri and Prince Lindani Nkosi of the Kingdom of Eswatini. Vice President Kembo Mohadi was the Guest of Honour.
Dr Kachirekwa said, “I thank the organizers for recognizing and acknowledging our sterling efforts. I believe it is our collective responsibility as proud Zimbabwean citizens to make Africa our motherland a better place for all where your background does not decide your future. Your skill and courage to act and foster a positive environment for all is what matters. We must project the Africa we want to live in and shape our destiny. In that regard energy accessibility is one of the most important factors which can propel us ahead.”
Engineer Kachirekwa believes that Zimbabwe must rise through practical home grown solutions implemented by it’s own citizens.
“Electricity is not just about wires and power stations. Electricity means hospitals can operate efficiently. It means children can study at night. It means businesses can grow and more jobs created. That is why all meaningful Zimbabweans must rally behind the energy programs being spearheaded by the Second Republic,” he said in a clarion call for Zimbabweans to support national development strategies championed by His Excellency, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa.
A Vision transcending Borders
Dr Kachirekwa’s influence goes beyond Zimbabwe. He has made great strides across Southern Africa, East Africa, West Africa, Central and North Africa.
In May this year, he is set to share his expertise on renewable energy and sustainable power development in the United Kingdom where he was invited.
He has also signed MoUs with several companies in Asia, including China and India, to partner in the provision of equipment required for the implementation of renewable energy projects in the country.
The impact of his initiatives on the African continent also resonates with Africa’s development thrust.
The African Union’s Agenda 2063 speaks of “The Africa We Want.” It speaks of a continent that is industrialized, self-reliant and powered by its own resources. Energy is at the centre of that dream. Without electricity there can be no meaningful economic development as power-hungry industries require uninterrupted energy to spur production.
Dr Kachirekwa’s work supports this continental vision. He represents the kind of expertise and leadership which Africa requires. His mission is simple yet so powerful and profound – to ensure the whole of Africa is powered – from schools, homes and workplaces, leaving no one behind in the energy revolution.
His accomplishments inspires both the young and the old alike. It teaches that one does not need to start from privilege to being tangible change in society
