Harare, (New Ziana) — Zimbabwe is in mourning following the death on Wednesday of Dr Sydney Zikuzo Gata, the Executive Chairman of ZESA Holdings and a towering figure in the energy sector. Gata, who died at a local hospital after a short illness, was 79 years old.
“It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we share the news of the untimely passing on of Dr. Sydney Zikuzo Gata, a distinguished energy, power, and infrastructure development specialist, and the Executive Chairman of ZESA Holdings. He passed away at a local hospital on 3 July 2025, after a short illness,” said the company in a statement.
ZESA said renowned for his deep commitment to power and infrastructure development, the death of Dr Gata marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned nearly five decades.
He is remembered not only as a distinguished engineer and strategist, but also as a compassionate leader whose work shaped the electricity landscape in the country through some of its most testing periods, said the company.
Dr Gata’s professional journey began in academia when he lectured in Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering at the Chelsea College of Aeronautical Engineering and City University in London From 1976 to 1981, before returning to Zimbabwe to teach at the University of Zimbabwe.
”He was the first black General Manager of the Electricity Supply Commission (ESC) from 1981 to 1985, after which he then served as CEO and board member of ZESA in the mid-1980s to early 1990s. He was appointed ZESA Executive Chairman in 2001- 2006, and was appointed to the same position in November 2019 until the time of his death,” said ZESA.
Under his stewardship, ZESA undertook ambitious efforts to stabilise power supply, implement infrastructure upgrades, and reform service delivery. He was especially known for advocating for the welfare of ZESA employees, treating the organization not just as a utility but as a national institution with a human face, said the power utility.
”Dr. Gata led with a rare blend of technical brilliance, strategic foresight, and a deep love for this country. His loss is immeasurable,” said ZESA.
Between 1992 and 1994, Dr Gata served on the board of the World Energy Council (WEC) and as Deputy Chairman of its Studies Committee.
He also held advisory and board roles with the African Development Bank and Integrated Energy Systems Ltd (UK), among others.
Zesa said throughout his career, Dr Gata remained a symbol of perseverance, innovation, and national service, adding whether in a lecture hall or a boardroom, his presence commanded respect, and his ideas sparked change.
Dr Gata is survived by his wife, Angeline Gata, who is the Zimbabwean Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, as well as his children and grandchildren. Details of memorial services and funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
New Ziana
