Social and Behavioural Determinants of Energy Efficiency amongst Children and Young People in Zimbabwe: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Household energy consumption is a major contributor to global emissions. In Zimbabwe, heavy reliance on traditional fuels and limited electricity access makes understanding youth energy-saving behaviours critical for public health and environmental interventions. This study explored the social and behavioural determinants of energy efficiency amongst Zimbabwean children and young people.

Materials and Methods: A qualitative formative assessment was conducted in four diverse districts, guided by the social ecological model and theory of planned behaviour. Data were collected via 64 focus groups (ages 4–24), 20 key informant interviews and 40 in-depth interviews. Transcripts were thematically analysed. The manuscript was prepared in accordance with the COREQ 32-item checklist.

Results: Energy literacy was functional but lacked technical depth, varying significantly with age. Behaviour was dictated by structural constraints, not choice. Prohibitive electricity costs described by respondents as ‘like paying lobola’ and persistent power cuts were dominant barriers, forcing reliance on firewood despite awareness of environmental impacts. Economic necessity frequently superseded cultural norms regarding fuel use.

Conclusion: Energy behaviours amongst Zimbabwean youth are shaped by systemic barriers and socio-economic status, which override individual intentions. Interventions must move beyond knowledge-based approaches to tackle structural inequalities in energy access and affordability. We recommend age-appropriate education and policy actions that improve infrastructure and support affordable alternatives like residential solar.