An Assessment of Energy Poverty in Zimbabwe's Urban Communities: The Case of Marondera

Though access to adequate, clean, reliable, sustainable and modern energy sources is a priority for poverty alleviation, provision and access to such energy sources has continued to be a challenge in Zimbabwe in the face of poor economic performance and increasing urban poverty levels. This study sought to assess energy poverty in Marondera Urban. Three residential areas and 120 respondents were selected for the study using a combination of purposive and random sampling techniques. A descriptive survey design was employed. Interviews, questionnaires and documentary analysis were used to collect data. The study found out that the residents of Marondera are energy poor as they have limited energy options; in the absence of electricity residents are forced to rely on traditional energy sources. This study recommends that energy and other related policies be pro poor and that more research into energy sources be done to increase the energy choices for urban dwellers