Zimbabwe and Zambia were hit by a widespread power outage on Sunday evening, with both countries experiencing electricity shortages exacerbated by a severe drought that has significantly reduced hydroelectric power generation. The blackout, which struck at 8:15 p.m. local time, marks the worst power disruption for Zambia in three years and for Zimbabwe since 2022.

The exact cause of the fault remains unclear, but the impact was felt across both nations. Zimbabwe Power Co. (ZPC) reported that power has been restored in most parts of Zimbabwe, while Zambia, Africa's second-largest copper producer, was still working on restoring supply as of Sunday night.

The power outage is a stark reminder of Africa's persistent energy crisis. The continent's energy deficit is a result of several factors, including weak infrastructure, economic hurdles, and policy issues. According to the State of African Energy Report 2025, out of the 685 million people worldwide without access to electricity, 590 million – about 86% – are in Africa.

North Africa, consisting of seven countries – Algeria, Egypt, Eritrea, Libya, Morocco, Sudan, and Tunisia – represents the continent's largest regional power market. In Sub-Saharan Africa, electricity access has improved, climbing from 38.3% in 2010 to 55% today. However, this progress has been undermined by rapid population growth, which has outpaced electrification efforts, leaving millions still without power.

The struggle to close Africa's electricity gap is a pressing issue, as access to reliable electricity is crucial for socio-economic development. The energy crisis has significant implications for the continent's economic growth, healthcare, education, and overall quality of life. As the population continues to grow, the demand for electricity will only increase, making it essential for African countries to address their energy deficits and invest in sustainable energy solutions.

In recent years, there have been efforts to increase investment in renewable energy, with several African countries emerging as top destinations for Chinese investors. However, more needs to be done to address the scale of the energy crisis. The power outage in Zimbabwe and Zambia serves as a wake-up call for African governments and stakeholders to prioritize energy infrastructure development and work towards ensuring universal access to electricity.

In conclusion, the power outage in Zimbabwe and Zambia highlights the urgent need for Africa to address its energy deficit. The continent's energy crisis is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach, involving investment in infrastructure, policy reforms, and sustainable energy solutions. As the African population continues to grow, it is essential to prioritize energy development to ensure that millions of people are not left in the dark.