Rural Electrification Fund

The Rural Electrification Fund (REF) is a Zimbabwean statutory body established under the Rural Electrification Fund Act (Chapter 13:20) to expand electricity access in rural areas. Operating across Zimbabwe’s eight rural provinces, REF implements grid extension and off-grid renewable energy projects targeting schools, clinics, business centres, and households. The fund mobilises resources through levies, government allocations, and development partner support to finance rural electrification schemes. Its mandate includes promoting the productive use of electricity to stimulate rural economic development and improve quality of life in underserved communities.