ZIM-ZAM 2026 OFFICIALLY OPENS WITH CALLS FOR STRONGER PARTNERSHIPS AND INVESTMENT
The third Zimbabwe-Zambia Energy Projects Summit (Zim-Zam 2026) has officially opened in Livingstone, bringing together government officials, investors, power utilities and private sector players to discuss ways of strengthening energy partnerships and attracting foreign direct investment.
Speaking during a panel discussion titled “Recognising FDI Momentum: Showcasing Zambia and Zimbabwe’s Success in Building Investor-Friendly Power Markets,” ZESCO Chief Operating Officer FitzPatrick Kapepe said Zambia had made progress in opening up its electricity market to private sector participation. He said ZESCO now viewed independent power producers as both partners and competitors.
Zimbabwe Electricity Supply Authority (ZESA) Private Limited Group Chief Executive Officer Cletus Nyachowe emphasised the importance of strong and well-structured utilities in attracting investment. He stressed that “for a public sector project to take off, you need a strong utility,” adding that improved regulation and reliable payment systems were key to building investor confidence.
Meanwhile, Solarcentury Africa Chief Executive Officer Jason De Carteret said “what makes the deals work is the existence of the customer,” highlighting the importance of reliable electricity consumers in making energy projects successful.
The discussions underscored the need for stronger partnerships between governments, utilities, investors and financial institutions to support energy development and drive economic growth in Zambia and Zimbabwe.
By Beauty Nkonde,
ICU TV.