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Zambia has officially launched the Energy Forum for Africa (EFFA) 2025, with a strong call for increased investment, partnerships, and innovation to unlock the continent’s vast energy potential.
Speaking on behalf of Energy Minister, Makozo Chikote, during the launch event held in Lusaka, Minister of Sport, Youth and Arts, Elvis Nkandu, described EFFA 2025 as more than a conference—calling it “a catalyst for concrete action” in addressing Africa’s energy challenges.
“This year’s theme, ‘Investment Opportunities in the Energy Sector in Zambia and Africa,’ reflects our conviction that with the right policies and partnerships, we can translate ambition into bankable, sustainable energy projects,” Chikote said.
He noted progress in energy sector reforms, including improved transparency, streamlined licensing, expanded grid access, and promotion of cross-border energy trade.
A major milestone, he added, was the commissioning of the 100MW Chisamba Solar Power Plant by KNBEPC—a project that was conceptualized during the inaugural EFFA 2024 and now stands as one of Zambia’s largest solar installations.
Chikote further disclosed that ZESCO Limited had signed Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with solar developers for over 1,000MW, although many of these projects still required financing.
He said EFFA 2025 would serve as a vital bridge between developers and financiers.
EFFA Forum Chief Executive, Engineer Hope Chanda, echoed the need for solutions-driven dialogue, saying the forum was designed to address the practical challenges facing Zambia’s energy landscape.
She cited the recent launch of the Open Access Policy as a key step towards liberalizing the grid and creating a competitive environment for power producers.
“Zambia does not lack potential—it lacks platforms. EFFA is that platform,” Eng Chanda said.
She also announced Stanbic Bank Zambia as the Platinum Sponsor of EFFA 2025, praising the bank’s role in promoting sustainable energy development.
In his keynote remarks, Stanbic Bank Zambia Chief Executive, Mwindwa Siakalima, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s energy ambitions, revealing that Stanbic had increased its sponsorship from K500,000 in 2024 to K750,000 for EFFA 2025.
“As Stanbic, we are proud to continue supporting the energy sector by investing in off-grid and alternative power solutions that address Zambia’s power deficit and drive economic growth,” he said.
Siakalima cited notable contributions including the 100MW Chisamba Solar PV Plant and facilitation of power imports. “With our ongoing support, Stanbic’s contribution to the energy sector will exceed 500MW added to the national grid,” he said.
“We are committed to sharing international best practices and providing access to financing to make universal access to power—including off-grid solutions—a reality,” Siakalima said.
He reiterated Stanbic’s alignment with Zambia’s development goals, emphasizing the bank’s strategic focus on “Leading Zambia’s Energy and Infrastructure Development” and its purpose that “Zambia is our home; we drive her growth.”
EFFA 2025 is expected to attract energy players, policymakers, investors, and financiers from across Africa and beyond, all working together to accelerate the continent’s transition toward sustainable and inclusive energy systems.
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