An overview of energy use scenarios in the A1 resettlement farming areas of Zimbabwe: A case of CC Molina, Sanyati

In 2000 the Zimbabwe government embarked on a massive land redistribution programme to redress historical imbalances that had favoured minority white farmers. The acquired farms were subdivided into A2 and smaller A1 model units. The newly resettled A1 farmers are battling to sustain or increase production amid lack of funding, agricultural inputs, commercial farming skills, and access to modern energy sources. Policy makers are grappling on how to support the new agrarian structuresto meet their demands for energy and enhanced agricultural production. It is observed that over 90% of the allotted A1 farms are not electrified and will remain as suchdue to high mains electricity installation costs. In CC Molina the energy supply is dominated by wood fuel, which accounts for more than 96% of the total energy used for domestic purposes. Different variants of the 3-stone fireplace are used. For lighting needs, solar lanterns and self-fabricated diesel wick lamps are used rather than illuminating kerosene. The use of draught animals and hand farming tools persists in this case area. This paper argues that alternative energy sources are a viable solution for the energy needs in these farming areas as there still exists an open market for renewable energy and energy efficient products. Information from this study can be useful in the generation of knowledge through evidence based-research that can be used for policy development and implementation. An understanding of energy use scenarios can contribute to the development of a viable alternative energy economy for this farming sector.