Power Cuts Continues in Bulawayo affecting informal Traders 

 Informal traders in Bulawayo are facing tough times due to long power cuts that leave neighborhoods without electricity for most of the day. This situation is forcing many to find expensive ways to keep their businesses running.

One trader from Nkulumane shared her experience, saying that the power cuts have made her employer cut back on operations and throw away spoiled meat. In contrast, some fast-food businesses are seeing an increase in customers as people look for quick meals during the outages.

Mkhwananzi, a resident of Northend, described how the frequent power cuts have hurt his small business. "The power goes off around 6 a.m. and comes back at about 8 p.m. With few job options, many of us rely on informal businesses. We try to keep drinks cold, but now they can’t stay that way, and it’s hurting us," he said. He also noted that missing out on watching football games due to the power cuts is frustrating. Prople pay for DSTV but miss their favorite because of the outages.

Hloniphani Dube, another Nkulumane resident, expressed similar frustrations especially cooking with firewood because they only get power at night, long after they go to bed. Dube mentioned that many residents are now buying gas for cooking, but this is not a sustainable solution. "We have to keep buying gas, and it runs out quickly. Using firewood is tough, and the smoke has changed our skin color."

Another resident criticized the timing of the outages, saying they feel unfair. "They cut the power when we need it most and give it back when we’re asleep. It feels like they’re playing with our emotions. Why can’t they provide power in the evening when we need to cook?" he asked, suggesting that some officials might benefit from gas companies. "ZACC needs to look into this," he urged.

In response to these ongoing challenges, the Zimbabwean government has announced plans to address the electricity crisis. During a recent briefing, Minister Jenfan Muswere shared efforts to restructure ZESA Holdings (Pvt) Ltd. The plan includes consolidating some parts of the company to resolve issues in the energy sector.