ZAMBIANS TO FEEL IMPACT OF ELECTRICITY INVESTMENTS IN 2026 AND IT’S NOT BECAUSE OF ELECTIONS, SAYS ENERGY MINISTER MAKOZO CHIKOTE
By: Thomas Afroman Mwale
Government has announced that Zambians will begin to feel the impact of ongoing energy sector investments in 2026, outlining that the measures are aimed at ending the current power deficit that has led to persistent load shedding.
Minister of Energy Makozo Chikote has emphasized that the anticipated improvements should not be linked to the 2026 elections but to the long-term plans Government has already set in motion.
Speaking at the Ground-Breaking Ceremony for the Kafue Gorge Lower 100-megawatt Solar Project in Chirundu, Mr. Chikote urged citizens not to live in fear of continued load shedding but to remain confident that Government is addressing the crisis through bold investments in solar and other alternative energy sources.
The Minister praised President Hakainde Hichilema, describing him as a visionary leader whose energy reforms and Public-Private Partnerships are now delivering positive results in the sector.
He reiterated that Government cares for the welfare of citizens, stressing that next year, they will appreciate.
At the same event, ZESCO Managing Director Justin Loongo stated that the project costing $90 million fits into the utility’s broader vision of expanding electricity access.
He said ZESCO has subsidized connection fees from K4,866 to K300 as part of this commitment.
Mr. Loongo added that ZESCO, together with its partners, is exploiting multiple energy sources to reduce Zambia’s long-term dependence on hydropower.
Meanwhile, Power China and JISCO reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to delivering the project within 10 months, while empowering 600 local workers and creating 100 permanent jobs.
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