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Tongaat Hulett is set to build its power-generating sites, in response to the ongoing El Niño-induced drought. This development is expected to bolster the company’s resilience in the face of severe electricity supply deficits.
In an exclusive interview with this publication, Patience Chuma, Head of Public Relations at Tongaat Hulett confirmed the initiative, emphasizing that the company remains committed to ensuring minimal disruption to its operations despite the challenges posed by the drought.
“Tongaat Hulett, through Hippo Valley and Triangle Sugar Corporation, has always been at the forefront of innovation and resilience. While we acknowledge the accounting and financial hurdles at the corporate level, our focus remains on maintaining operational stability and meeting both domestic and export sugar demands,” Chuma said.
This proactive measure is expected to safeguard the company’s operations from the effects of the power crisis. Hippo Valley, located in Zimbabwe’s Lowveld region, plays a critical role in the nation’s sugar industry.
“The decision to build independent power plants comes at a time when Zimbabwe is grappling with widespread power outages, exacerbated by the drought’s impact on hydroelectric power generation,” Chuma noted.
Chuma reassured stakeholders that the drought would not significantly impact the company’s performance.
“The drought experienced this year will not affect the industry’s anticipated current-year performance. We have adequate sugar stocks to meet all critical sugar sales requirements before the commencement of the next season, ensuring the stability of both the domestic market and critical export markets,” she added.
The move to establish independent power plants has been lauded by industry experts and stakeholders as a strategic and timely decision. John Makoni, an energy analyst based in Harare, praised the initiative.
“This is a forward-thinking move by Hippo Valley and Tongaat Hulett. In a country where energy supply is erratic, having an independent power source will not only secure their operations but also set a precedent for other companies in the region,” Makoni said
Similarly, local farmers who supply cane to Hippo Valley have also welcomed the development.
“As suppliers, we are relieved to see the company taking such decisive steps. This means more stability for us and confidence that our produce will not go to waste due to power shortages,” said Tanaka Moyo, a cane farmer from Chiredzi.
Meanwhile, the invitation for bids to construct these power plants signals Tongaat Hulett’s commitment to long-term sustainability and operational efficiency, even in the face of climate challenges. The success of this project could serve as a model for other agricultural and industrial players in Zimbabwe as they navigate the impacts of climate change.