AiBST TRUST Commissions Solar Power System to Strengthen Sustainable Research

The African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology Trust (AiBST TRUST) recently commissioned a new solar power system with support from The African Capacity Building Foundation, marking an important step towards strengthening sustainable and resilient biomedical research in Zimbabwe.

The launch brought together representatives from sponsors, development partners, government, the research and development ecosystem, and the media. Attendees included Fran Berliouz-Seux and Upendra Argikar of the Gates Foundation, Abdrahamane Dicko of the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), Kenneth McLeod of the University of Dundee’s Drug Discovery Unit, Tanaka Sakubani of the Ministry of Health and Child Care, TENDO, and members of the AiBST Board and Management.

The solar installation comprises 400 solar panels and is capable of generating approximately 300 kWh of electricity per day. The system will help AiBST TRUST reduce dependence on conventional power sources while strengthening the reliability of electricity supply for critical research and laboratory operations.

Reliable power is essential in biomedical research environments. Laboratories require stable electricity to operate sensitive scientific instruments, preserve temperature-controlled samples, protect research data, and maintain uninterrupted workflows. The new solar power system will therefore enhance operational continuity and support AiBST TRUST’s growing research, training, and laboratory-service activities.

At the heart of this vision is the leadership of Professor Collen Masimirembwa, whose work in precision medicine, drug discovery, and biomedical research has helped advance a stronger African research and development ecosystem. The support from the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF), including investment in AiBST TRUST’s solar power system, recognises the importance of reliable and sustainable infrastructure in enabling high-quality scientific research.

By strengthening energy resilience, the solar installation will help provide the stable power needed to support laboratory operations, protect sensitive equipment and samples, and sustain critical research activities. This investment reinforces AiBST TRUST’s capacity to expand its contribution to biomedical research, drug discovery, and innovation in Zimbabwe and across Africa.

The investment demonstrates AiBST TRUST’s commitment to integrating environmental sustainability into scientific advancement. By adopting renewable energy, the institution is contributing to a cleaner future while ensuring that its researchers have the dependable infrastructure needed to pursue solutions to Africa’s health challenges.

The commissioning reflects a shared vision among AiBST TRUST and its partners: building research institutions that are resilient, sustainable, and equipped to deliver impactful science for Zimbabwe and the continent.

AiBST TRUST is powering discovery through sustainable innovation.