By 
The Centre for Trade Policy and Development (CTPD) has called for enhanced oversight by Parliamentary Committees on energy sector contracts to ensure transparency and protect the country from undue fiscal risks.
Speaking with Zambia Monitor in an interview on the sidelines of a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Radisson Blu Hotel Lusaka, CTPD Head of Advocacy, Natalie Kaunda, underscored the importance of effective governance in Zambia’s energy sector.
Kaunda said the sector remained a crucial pillar of the national economy, and transparency in the negotiation and management of energy contracts was vital for ensuring that public resources deliver maximum benefit to citizens.
She noted that Parliament’s role in reviewing fiscal expenditure documents was essential in assessing Zambia’s exposure to public debt.
“The government has a responsibility to ensure that energy contracts are negotiated in the best interest of the country. However, concerns have been raised about the lack of transparency in some energy deals, which has led to calls for greater scrutiny,” Kaunda said.
She explained that the CTPD was advocating for Parliament to more effectively exercise its oversight function, particularly in reviewing contracts linked to energy generation and foreign currency commitments.
Kaunda added that stronger oversight would help mitigate public debt risks and ensure that the energy sector contributes meaningfully to sustainable development.
Read More: Mines ministry enforces new local content reporting rules, issues April, 15 deadline
“The country’s energy needs are growing, and it’s critical that contracts are managed in a way that benefits the economy. Effective oversight is necessary to prevent mismanagement of resources,” she said.
She cited examples from other countries where strong oversight mechanisms had improved outcomes for citizens, stressing that Zambia could draw lessons from such models.
“Parliament must ensure that energy contracts are transparent and beneficial to Zambia,” she emphasized.
Kaunda said the CTPD was collaborating with various stakeholders to push for reforms in the energy sector, adding that effective oversight would accelerate the country’s development and help reduce poverty.
“There is a need for Parliament to strengthen its capacity to oversee energy contracts and ensure that they align with national interests,” she said.
She noted that the energy sector was expected to play a central role in Zambia’s economic recovery, and with improved transparency and governance, the country could unlock its full energy potential and drive sustainable growth.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments