Harare, 13 October 2025 — Seven rural schools across Zimbabwe have received free solar power installations courtesy of the People’s Own Savings Bank (POSB), as part of the Bank’s ongoing commitment to promoting access to clean energy and supporting education in underprivileged communities.
The donation, worth USD 20,000, is part of POSB’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative aligned with the recently launched USD 8.7 million Solar and Starlink Facility, which seeks to power schools and connect them to reliable internet access. The beneficiary schools include Kamwa, Masemo, and Kahobo Secondary Schools in Gokwe North, Midlands Province; Chipinda Secondary School and Birirano Primary School in Mutema–Musikavanhu, Chipinge, Manicaland Province; Avoca Primary School in Bindura, Mashonaland Central Province; and Siganda Primary School in Bubi, Matabeleland North Province.
Empowering Education Through Sustainable Energy
Speaking at the official launch of the Solar and Starlink Facility in Harare, POSB Chief Executive Officer, Mr Garainashe Changunda, said the Bank’s investment demonstrates its dedication to driving inclusive growth through sustainable innovation.
“This initiative is not just about energy provision; it’s about empowering communities, enabling education, and driving economic growth,” said Mr Changunda. “Through our Corporate Social Responsibility, we are ensuring that schools without access to electricity can now benefit from free 5kVA solar systems, paving the way for connected, modern learning environments.”
Mr Changunda noted that the donation complements POSB’s broader USD 8.7 million Solar and Starlink Facility, which aims to power 400 schools, 2,700 households, and 400 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by 2027. The facility is part of POSB’s three-year transformation strategy focused on education, clean energy, and digital connectivity.
Government Commends POSB’s Commitment
Guest of Honour, Honourable Torerayi Moyo (MP), Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, commended POSB for its visionary approach in supporting the Government’s education transformation and digital inclusion agenda.
“This remarkable initiative embodies the spirit of collaboration and innovation in our education sector, directly addressing our nation’s priority of education for all,” said Minister Moyo. “By investing in solar energy and technology, POSB is helping ensure that every child—no matter their location—has access to quality, connected learning environments. This visionary intervention supports our drive towards a sustainable, inclusive, and modernised education system in line with Vision 2030.”
The Minister highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Presidential Computerisation and Solarisation Programmes, which aim to provide renewable energy solutions to schools, especially in remote areas. He added that access to solar energy and internet connectivity would help bridge the digital divide, empower learners, and strengthen the delivery of Zimbabwe’s Heritage-Based Curriculum and Education 5.0 policy.
Driving Vision 2030 and Sustainable Development Goals
POSB’s Solar and Starlink Facility supports Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, the National Renewable Energy Policy, and global sustainability frameworks, including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
In addition to financing clean energy and connectivity solutions, POSB is working with its partners — Transerv, Global Solar, and TelOne — to roll out installations and is also exploring carbon credit registration to attract international climate finance.
“As we mark our 120th anniversary, POSB is redefining its role, not only as a custodian of savings but also as a catalyst for national transformation,” Mr Changunda said. “The Solar and Starlink facility is our declaration that POSB stands ready to power Zimbabwe’s sustainable, inclusive, and technology-driven education sector.”