https://cris.library.msu.ac.zw//handle/11408/5147 Sun, 24 May 2026 23:46:55 GMT 2026-05-24T23:46:55Z https://cris.library.msu.ac.zw//handle/11408/7079 Title: Comparative Analysis of Hydropower and Thermal-fired Plants in Zimbabwe’s National Grid Authors: Kumba, Hagreaves Abstract: Zimbabwe's national power generation sector heavily depends on two primary sources: hydropower and coal-fired thermal power stations. The country, with a total installed capacity of approximately 1,700 MW against a demand of 5,000 MW, faces persistent power shortages, leading to imports and frequent blackouts. These two sources present distinct operational characteristics, environmental implications, and resilience to climate and economic pressures. This paper presents a comparative analysis of hydropower and thermal-fired plants in Zimbabwe’s national grid, focusing on their current status, challenges, and future prospects. The study evaluates generation capacity, reliability, cost structure, environmental impact, and long-term sustainability under climate variability. The research will use data from the Zimbabwe Power Company, Zambezi River Authority, policy documents, and relevant government ministries to assess the performance of the power stations. The methodology involves techno-economic and environmental performance assessments. The key indicators to be examined include average annual generation output, operational efficiency, carbon emissions, fuel availability, vulnerability to climate change, and maintenance downtime. Expected results include a clearer understanding of the relative strengths and weaknesses of hydropower and thermal power in Zimbabwe's energy system, including their suitability for long-term sustainability and climate resilience. The study also anticipates identifying policy and investment pathways that support a more diversified, reliable, and low-carbon electricity mix. The water–energy–climate nexus approach will serve as the analytical framework to understand the research's interdependencies, trade-offs, and policy gaps. Finally, this paper aims to contribute to ongoing national and regional discussions on energy security and infrastructure modernization in line with sustainable development goals. Description: The 6th International Electronic Conference on Applied Sciences session Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering- Conference Proceedings- 9–11 December 2025 Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://cris.library.msu.ac.zw//handle/11408/7079 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z Kumba, Hagreaves https://cris.library.msu.ac.zw//handle/11408/7077 Title: Comparative Overview of Solar Engineering Education in Zimbabwe: Short-term and Blended Training Authors: Pasipamire, Ratidzo; Kumba, Hagreaves; Joseph Akpan; Oludolapo Akanni Olanrewaju Abstract: Zimbabwe's adoption of renewable energy technologies has led to a surge in demand for skilled personnel in the renewable energy sector. This work is a policy-oriented discussion with resource implications on two training schemes that contribute to addressing the skills gap in solar energy education. Short-term related training programs in solar engineering, such as those offered by universities, polytechnics, and vocational training centers, offer immediate technical skills but lack depth. Blended training, which emphasizes practical experience and project-based learning, has successfully produced skilled artisans with holistic knowledge in traditional engineering disciplines. However, this blended training system is yet to be adapted for training solar engineering professionals in polytechnics and vocational training centers. This has exposed critical gaps in training frameworks and the adaptability required to prepare workers for the renewable energy transition. Addressing these gaps through flexible learning paths, strong academic-industry partnerships, modern curricula, and coordinated resource mobilization could improve training outcomes and contribute to a more skilled and sustainable workforce. Description: Paper presented at the conference held in Melbourne, Australia on the 07-10 December 2025 Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT https://cris.library.msu.ac.zw//handle/11408/7077 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z Pasipamire, Ratidzo Kumba, Hagreaves Joseph Akpan Oludolapo Akanni Olanrewaju https://cris.library.msu.ac.zw//handle/11408/6938 Title: Renewable energy adoption and integration in South Africa: an overview Authors: Kumba, Hagreaves; Akpan, J.; Twite, B.; Olanrewaju, O. Abstract: The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 of ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all is of critical importance to the development and growth of South Africa's economy. The ambition in SDG 7 is that by 2030 there should be universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services. Electricity as energy is an essential enabler of economic development that can lift people out of poverty, therefore supporting sustainable development and industrialization. Improved access to energy in South Africa has the potential to alleviate poverty, promote industrialization and economic development. However, challenges with the state-owned energy utility company, Eskom, have resulted in the country experiencing regular power cuts. This article aims to provide a substantial review of the current renewable energy scenario in South Africa considering the faced challenges and their potential solutions for sustainable development. It will also highlight some of the progress on SDG7 integration, strategies, and innovations in support to expedite South Africa progress towards universal energy access. The discussion serves as a guide to further investigate the development of renewable energy projects and the barriers to the implementation. Sun, 01 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT https://cris.library.msu.ac.zw//handle/11408/6938 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z Kumba, Hagreaves Akpan, J. Twite, B. Olanrewaju, O. https://cris.library.msu.ac.zw//handle/11408/6936 Title: Bridging the Digital Divide: "Improving Information, Communication, and Technology (ICT) in Zimbabwe to Spur Economic Development." Authors: Kumba, Hagreaves; Oludolapo Olanrewaju Abstract: The information, communication, and technology (ICT) are two interconnected topics that are crucial in today's digital age. In today's world ICT has become an essential tool for communication, education, and economic growth. Access to the internet has become a basic human right, with more than half of the world's population using it, and infrastructure development is critical for providing this access, particularly in Africa. In today's modern world, the internet is a vital tool for communication, education, and economic growth. This paper explores internet access and infrastructure development in Africa, to identify the impacts, challenges, and solutions for improving access. An extensive literature review is done which will assist in identifying and addressing key issues related to internet access and infrastructure development, as well as providing insights into how to maximize the benefits of these technologies for individuals and communities. Description: Proceedings of the 6th European Conference on Industrial Engineering and Operations Management Lisbon, Portugal, July 18-20, 2023 Sun, 01 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT https://cris.library.msu.ac.zw//handle/11408/6936 2023-01-01T00:00:00Z Kumba, Hagreaves Oludolapo Olanrewaju