The Minister of Energy, Makozo Chikote, has directed ZESCO Limited to strictly adhere to the agreed seven-hour electricity load management schedule, emphasizing the need for predictability to minimize disruptions to households, businesses, and essential services.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting attended by senior ZESCO officials, the ZESCO Board Chairperson, the Director General of the Energy Regulation Board (ERB), and representatives from the Rural Electrification Authority (REA). Also present was the newly appointed Permanent Secretary for Electricity in the Ministry of Energy, Arnold Simwaba.
Chikote acknowledged the public’s concerns over inconsistencies in implementing the load management schedule and urged ZESCO to ensure strict compliance. He stressed that poor service delivery would not be tolerated and called for improved communication with consumers regarding any necessary adjustments.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to long-term energy solutions, the minister emphasized the importance of investment in alternative energy sources and infrastructure development. He also cautioned against political interference in electricity load management, stating that decision-making should be based on technical expertise and national interest rather than external influences.
As part of efforts to enhance power supply, ZESCO has been tasked with adding an additional 1,000MW to the national grid by the end of the year, in line with President Hakainde Hichilema’s directive. The minister underscored the significance of meeting this target to improve energy security and support Zambia’s economic growth.
To address immediate challenges, Chikote advised ZESCO to continue importing electricity from regional partners as a temporary measure to stabilize supply. While acknowledging the necessity of imports in the short term, he reiterated that the government remains focused on increasing domestic power generation to ensure long-term energy security.
Emphasizing the need to protect key institutions from power disruptions, the minister directed ZESCO to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply to critical security and public service facilities.
ZESCO Board Chairperson Vickson N’cube and Managing Director Justin Loongo assured the minister of the company’s full commitment to implementing the directive. Loongo further pledged that all new power generation projects would be completed on schedule, in line with efforts to enhance electricity supply and distribution efficiency.
In a bid to accelerate power generation efforts, Chikote announced plans to engage independent power producers to explore ways of fast-tracking electricity projects and achieving the 1,000MW target within the year. He stressed that collaboration with the private sector remains vital in securing Zambia’s long-term energy stability.
